1.
What is a representative democracy?
Correct Answer
A. A system of government where people elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf
Explanation
A representative democracy is a system of government where people choose representatives through elections to make decisions on their behalf. In this system, the elected representatives act as the voice of the people and make decisions and policies that reflect the will and interests of the citizens. This form of government allows for broader participation and representation, as it ensures that the diverse views and opinions of the population are considered in the decision-making process.
2.
What is required for a referendum question to be passed?
Correct Answer
C. A majority of people in Australia and a majority of people in a majority of States/Territories to vote yes
Explanation
For a referendum question to be passed, it is necessary for a majority of people in Australia and a majority of people in a majority of States/Territories to vote yes. This means that not only does the majority of the Australian population need to support the question, but there also needs to be support from a majority of the states and territories within Australia. This requirement ensures that the decision reflects the collective will of the entire country and prevents a small number of states or territories from dominating the outcome.
3.
Voting is compulsory for:
Correct Answer
C. Australia citizens 18 years of age and over
Explanation
The correct answer is Australian citizens 18 years of age and over. This means that all Australian citizens who are 18 years old or older are required by law to vote. This rule applies to all citizens, regardless of whether they own property or not. The aim of this compulsory voting system is to ensure that all eligible citizens have a say in the democratic process and to promote political engagement and participation.
4.
The Federal Parliament is made up of which two houses?
Correct Answer
A. The House of Representatives and the Senate
Explanation
The Federal Parliament is made up of two houses, namely the House of Representatives and the Senate. The House of Representatives is responsible for representing the people and making laws, while the Senate represents the states and territories and acts as a house of review for legislation. This bicameral system ensures a balance of power and allows for thorough scrutiny and debate of proposed laws. The options of the Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council, as well as the House of Assembly and the House of Lords, do not accurately represent the composition of the Federal Parliament.
5.
What is the name given to the mechanism to change the Constitution?
Correct Answer
C. Referendum
Explanation
Referendum is the correct answer because it is a mechanism used to change the Constitution. A referendum is a direct vote in which the entire electorate is asked to either accept or reject a particular proposal or law. It allows the citizens to have a say in constitutional amendments by voting on the proposed changes. This process ensures that any modifications to the Constitution are made with the consent and approval of the people.
6.
What helps to make an election free and fair?
Correct Answer
A. Voting is secret and each vote has the same value
Explanation
To ensure that an election is free and fair, it is important that voting is secret and each vote has the same value. When voting is secret, it allows individuals to freely express their choices without fear of intimidation or reprisal. This promotes a democratic environment where people can vote according to their own beliefs and preferences. Additionally, when each vote has the same value, it ensures that every citizen's voice is equally heard and counted, regardless of their social status or influence. This principle of equality helps to prevent any form of discrimination or bias, making the election fair for all participants.
7.
Which of the following is an argument in favor of compulsory voting?
Correct Answer
C. It is the responsibility of all citizens to participate in the electoral process
Explanation
Compulsory voting can be seen as an argument in favor of ensuring that all citizens fulfill their responsibility to participate in the electoral process. By making voting mandatory, it promotes equal representation and ensures that the voice of every citizen is heard. It helps to prevent apathy and encourages citizens to engage in the democratic process, ultimately leading to a more representative and inclusive democracy.
8.
What is the purpose of a referendum in the Australian Constitution?
Correct Answer
C. To alter the wording of the Constitution
Explanation
The purpose of a referendum in the Australian Constitution is to alter the wording of the Constitution. Referendums are held to seek approval from the Australian citizens for any proposed changes to the Constitution. This ensures that any changes made to the Constitution are done with the consent and input of the people. By allowing citizens to vote on proposed amendments, the referendum process serves as a democratic mechanism to alter the fundamental law of the land.
9.
What does ‘one vote – one value’ mean?
Correct Answer
B. Every vote has equal worth
Explanation
The phrase "one vote - one value" means that every vote carries equal weight and importance. This principle ensures that each individual's vote has the same impact and influence in the decision-making process, regardless of their background, social status, or any other factors. It promotes fairness and equality in the democratic system by giving every citizen an equal opportunity to express their opinion and contribute to the collective decision-making process.
10.
The Australian Constitution is the set of legal principles by which Australia is governed.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The Australian Constitution is indeed the set of legal principles that govern Australia. It outlines the structure and powers of the Australian government, as well as the rights and responsibilities of its citizens. It serves as the supreme law of the country and provides the framework for the functioning of the government and the protection of individual rights. Therefore, the statement "The Australian Constitution is the set of legal principles by which Australia is governed" is true.
11.
Australia is a democracy as every Member of Parliament is elected by the citizens, as a representative of the people to make decisions and laws for the nation.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Australia is considered a democracy because the citizens have the power to elect their representatives in the form of Members of Parliament. These elected officials are responsible for making decisions and creating laws on behalf of the people and the nation as a whole. This system allows for the participation and representation of the citizens in the political process, making Australia a democratic country.
12.
The House of Representatives is also known as the States House.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The States House is other name for the Senate. The House of Representatives is also known as the People's House because it represents the people.