Test 6 of 7
Government and Law Test 6
Format
20 MCQs
Time Limit
45 Minutes
Language
English
Booklet
Our Common Bond
This test includes questions from OCB Testable Part 3: Government and the law in Australia.
Pass Mark: 15/20 | Success Rate: 75%
Start Test
Who is the head of a state government?
The Prime Minister.
The Premier.
The Mayor.
The Premier leads the state government, while the Prime Minister leads the federal government.
Where do state and territory governments usually meet?
In the largest city.
In regional centers.
In capital cities.
Each state and territory government is based in its own capital city.
When and how does the Governor-General start the federal election process?
By dissolving the Parliament on the advice of the Prime Minister.
Whenever public opinion polls show a change in government popularity.
Based on their own personal political preference for a specific party.
Under the Australian Constitution, the Governor-General has the power to dissolve the House of Representatives to call an election. By constitutional convention, this is done only when the Prime Minister "advises" the Governor-General to do so. This act officially ends the current session of Parliament and triggers the election process.
Which group is the key decision-making body of the Australian Government?
Cabinet.
Senate.
House of Representatives.
The Cabinet, made up of senior ministers, makes the most important government decisions.
How many Houses are in the Australian Federal Parliament?
One.
Two.
Three.
The Parliament consists of the House of Representatives and the Senate.
What kind of majority is needed to change the Constitution in a referendum?
A double majority.
Over 90%.
Unanimous consent.
A "double majority" means a majority of voters nationally and a majority of voters in at least four states.
How can the Australian Constitution be changed?
By a referendum (a vote by the people).
By a vote in Parliament only.
By a decree from the King.
A referendum requires a "double majority" of voters to change the Constitution.
Who serves as the Commander-in-Chief of the Australian Defence Force?
Prime Minister.
Minister of Defence.
Governor-General.
The Governor-General holds the ceremonial role of Commander-in-Chief of the defense forces.
How do the Australian people approve a change to the Constitution?
Through a parliamentary vote.
By voting in a referendum.
By petitioning the court.
A referendum is a special vote where citizens decide if the Constitution should change.
Why was it hard to enforce laws across colony borders before 1901?
Laws were too efficient.
Defense was too strong.
Separate constitutions and laws.
Because each colony had its own laws and constitution, cross-border law enforcement was very difficult.
What is the official title of Australia's Head of State?
Governor-General.
Prime Minister.
King.
Australia is a constitutional monarchy, and the King is the official Head of State.
Who is currently Australia's Head of State?
The King of Australia.
The Governor-General.
The Prime Minister.
King Charles III is the King of Australia and the official Head of State.
What was a major problem for the colonies before they united in 1901?
A unified constitution.
Slow and expensive trade.
Strong defense systems.
Before Federation, trade between the separate colonies was often slow, expensive, and difficult.
Who appoints the Governor-General of Australia?
The King of Australia.
The Australian Parliament.
The Prime Minister.
The King appoints the Governor-General after receiving advice from the Australian Prime Minister.
Why is it important for citizens to contact their elected representatives?
It is purely a symbolic gesture with no real impact.
It is only the government’s job to decide what is best for people.
To voice their concerns, share their views, and help shape government policy.
Contacting representatives allows citizens to share their views and help shape government policy.
What is the title of the leader of a territory government?
Premier.
Chief Minister.
Governor.
A Premier leads a state government, while a Chief Minister leads a territory government.
Who officially approves the appointment of the Prime Minister and ministers?
The Cabinet.
The Senate.
Governor-General.
The Governor-General performs the constitutional duty of appointing the Prime Minister and ministers.
What is another name for the national "Australian Government"?
Regional Government.
Commonwealth Government.
Provincial Government.
The national government is often called the Commonwealth Government or Federal Government.
What is the primary job of a government minister?
Leading the opposition.
Forming all policies alone.
Managing a specific portfolio.
Ministers oversee specific government areas, such as health, education, or defense.
How many states make up the Commonwealth of Australia?
4.
6.
8.
Australia has six states: NSW, VIC, QLD, WA, SA, and TAS.