Parliamentary democracy
Australia’s system of government is a parliamentary democracy. As a part of this system, you will have a say in how Australia is governed by voting for a person to represent you in parliament. Parliament has the power to make and change the laws in Australia.
The representatives in parliament must answer to the people, through elections, for the decisions they make.
Rule of law
All Australians are equal under the law. No person, group or religion is above the law. Everyone, including people who hold positions of power in the Australian community, must obey Australia’s laws.
Living peacefully
Australians are proud to live in a peaceful country with a stable system of government. Australians believe that change should occur through discussion, peaceful persuasion, and the democratic process. We reject violence as a way to change a person’s mind or the law.
Respect for all individuals regardless of background
Australia’s democratic system is based on the principle that every individual, regardless of their background, has rights and equality under Australian law. All Australians are expected to treat each other with dignity and respect, regardless of their race, country of origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, age, disability, heritage, culture, politics, wealth or religio