It’s amazing to know that whether you’ve already heard about it on the news or read about it on the books, there’s always something new you can learn about our parliament. It is worth learning—after all, they make laws that serve us.
The Government at Work
So what else can you learn about the parliament and the government? Take a look at how it works:
Law Making
The Parliament is responsible for making laws on behalf of Australians. This is through a bill that is introduced into the parliament, created by ministers. There are special cases when non-members also create their own bills.
Passing Bills
Bills are passed when all members agree on it. The House of Representatives and the Senate vote whether to pass it or not. The Governor-General is responsible for approving the bill into law.
Representation
In the parliament, each sector of Australia is represented by an MP. The MP is responsible for overseeing laws regarding their section. They are also authorized to listen to the grievances of people living in their respective territories.
Speaking for the People
When they have collected, investigated, or have been approached by people with grievances, they are tasked to bring the problems to light in Parliament. Most of these have been made into concrete laws.
Encouraging Discourse
Outside of the Parliament, people can also approach their MP. It is here that the investigative process happens. It can also be viewed as the government reaching out to its constituents and listening to their concerns or innovative ideas.
Creation of a Governing body
It is the job of the Parliament to vote on who will become the next majority party. To have the majority seats, people usually vote in party members and the party with more seats controls the majority—hence, the governing body.
Investigative Work
The importance of Parliament is highlighted when they discuss discrepancies on certain issues. News of corruption or bribery of members of Parliament, among others, is investigated here.
At Work for You
Learn to use the power given to you wisely, as a constituent demanding fairness from your MPs. Parliament exists just the same way as government exists—to serve the people.