How laws are made
A proposed law is called a Bill. It must pass with a majority in both houses of Parliament, and then the Governor-General signs it into law, which is called Royal Assent.
What to remember
- A proposed law is a Bill.
- A Bill needs a majority in each House of Parliament.
- The Governor-General then signs it into law (Royal Assent).
Sample questions
What is a proposal for a new law, or a change to an existing law, called?Show answer
- A Bill
- A referendum
- An Act of Assent
A Bill. If a member of the Australian Parliament proposes a new law or a change to an existing one, the proposal is called a 'Bill'.
What must happen before a Bill goes to the Governor-General?Show answer
- The High Court must approve it
- A majority of members in each House of Parliament must agree to it
- A majority of voters must approve it in a referendum
A majority of members in each House of Parliament must agree to it. The House of Representatives and the Senate consider, debate and vote on a Bill. If a majority in each House agrees, it goes to the Governor-General.
What is 'Royal Assent'?Show answer
- When the King visits Australia
- When the Prime Minister introduces a Bill
- When the Governor-General signs a Bill so it becomes law
When the Governor-General signs a Bill so it becomes law. The Governor-General signs a Bill so that it becomes law. This is called 'Royal Assent'.
Source: Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond, p. 30. Read the full booklet on the Home Affairs website.