Under the doctrine of separation of powers, where is legislative power vested?

Hi Brett! Thanks for asking. The Australian Constitution gives legislative power – the power to make and pass laws – to the Australian Parliament. Parliament is made up of the Governor-General representing the King, the Senate and the House of Representatives.

The Australian Constitution divides the power to govern Australia between:

  • the Australian Parliament that makes laws for all Australians
  • the Executive – the Prime Minister and ministers – which puts the law into action
  • the Judiciary – the High Court of Australia and other federal courts – that make judgements on the law.

 

The Australian High Court in session. Judges wearing black robes sit at a long table. They are facing lawyers sitting at another table. The lawyers wear old-fashioned wigs.

The High Court of Australia.

DPS Auspic

The High Court of Australia.

The Australian High Court in session. Judges wearing black robes sit at a long table. They are facing lawyers sitting at another table. The lawyers wear old-fashioned wigs.

DPS Auspic

Description

A large semi circular desk atop a small raise at the end of the room. Seven figures in black (High Court judges) with papers in front of them sit at this long desk. In front of them on the floor is an opposite curved desk with many figures in black with many papers in front of them. Smaller desks sit in rows behind.

Permission should be sought from DPS AUSPIC for third-party or commercial uses of this image. To contact DPS AUSPIC email: auspic@aph.gov.au or phone: 02 6277 3342.