High Court of Australia & Constitution

• The High Court of Australia is the supreme judicial authority in Australia, established in 1901 under Section 71 of the Constitution, and began operating in 1903.
• The High Court comprises seven justices, including the Chief Justice, appointed by the Governor-General on the advice of the federal government, serving until age 70.
• The court handles constitutional cases, disputes between states, and cases involving treaties or federal law in its original jurisdiction.
• The court hears appeals from lower federal and state courts through its appellate jurisdiction.
• Located in Canberra, the High Court also sits in other state capitals when necessary.
• The High Court interprets and enforces the Constitution, ensuring laws passed by Parliament align with constitutional principles.
• Decisions made by the High Court are binding on all other courts in Australia.
• The High Court operates independently, maintaining public trust in the justice system.

Australian Constitution

• The Australian Constitution was enacted in 1901 and defines the structure, powers, and functions of government in Australia.
• The Constitution is a written document consisting of eight chapters and 128 sections.
• The Constitution establishes a federal system, dividing powers between the Commonwealth and the states.
• Section 51 outlines specific powers allocated to the Commonwealth, such as defense, foreign affairs, and trade; residual powers remain with the states.
• The Constitution defines the separation of powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
• It provides mechanisms for amending the Constitution, requiring a national referendum with a double majority.
• The High Court is established as the ultimate interpreter of the Constitution's provisions.
• The Constitution lacks explicit recognition of Indigenous Australians and their rights.

Australian Legislature

• The Australian Legislature, known as Parliament, is the federal lawmaking body established by the Constitution.
• It is bicameral, consisting of the House of Representatives and the Senate.
• The House of Representatives represents the population, with 151 members elected from individual constituencies based on population size, serving three-year terms.
• The Senate represents the states and territories, with each state electing 12 senators and each territory electing two, serving six-year terms.
• The Senate reviews and amends proposed legislation from the House of Representatives.
• Parliament meets at Parliament House in Canberra.
• The legislature is responsible for enacting laws, scrutinizing government actions, and representing the interests of Australian citizens.
• It operates under a system of responsible government, where the executive is drawn from and accountable to the legislature.

Role of the High Court

• The High Court of Australia is the ultimate judicial authority in the constitutional system.
• The court's primary role is to interpret and enforce the Constitution, ensuring that government actions comply with constitutional principles.
• The High Court has original jurisdiction in constitutional matters.
• The court hears appeals from lower courts, making it the final court of appeal in Australia.
• Through its decisions, the High Court defines the limits of legislative and executive powers.
• The court ensures federal laws are consistent with constitutional provisions and resolves conflicts between the Commonwealth and states.
• The High Court operates independently to uphold the separation of powers and protect the rule of law.
• Its rulings have shaped Australian legal and political systems.
• The High Court's authority to invalidate unconstitutional laws ensures accountability within the government.

Legislative part of Government

• The legislative part of government, or the Parliament, is responsible for making, amending, and repealing laws.
• The Parliament consists of the House of Representatives and the Senate.
• The House of Representatives is made up of 151 members elected from constituencies across Australia, serving as the voice of the people.
• The House initiates most legislation, especially financial and budget-related bills.
• The Senate consists of 76 senators, with each state electing 12 senators and each territory electing two.
• The Senate scrutinizes legislation passed by the House of Representatives and proposes amendments to ensure laws are equitable.
• Parliament is chaired by the Speaker in the House of Representatives and the President in the Senate.
• The legislature works closely with the executive, as ministers must be members of Parliament.

House of Representatives

• The House of Representatives is one of two houses in the Australian Parliament, referred to as the "people's house".
• The House has 151 members, each representing a single electorate determined based on population, ensuring proportional representation.
• Members serve three-year terms, representing their constituents' interests, debating national issues, and passing legislation.
• The House introduces, debates, and votes on proposed laws.
• It is the primary chamber for initiating and passing financial legislation; the Senate cannot introduce money bills.
• The government is formed by the political party or coalition that holds the majority of seats in the House.
• The Prime Minister and most cabinet ministers are members of the House, linking it closely to the executive branch.
• The Speaker presides over the House, ensuring order and adherence to parliamentary rules.