Parliamentary Democracy in Australia

Abstract

Australia developed parliamentary democracy without any struggle for independence as colonial governments became self-governing in the 1850s and a federal nation was created in 1901. This article explores, among other things, the implications of those parts of the Australian system of government that differ from the British model from which it emerged. These include a written constitution, a federal structure, a powerful Senate, compulsory and preferential voting, highly disciplined parties, albeit with a shrinking membership base, and Prime Ministers highly vulnerable to internal party revolt. These factors have all shaped the way that politics is fought and parliamentary government is organised in Australia.