Search

Format

Level

Tag

Detail

  1. icon_image image

    Senate current numbers

    This image shows the current numbers in the Senate.

  2. icon_image image

    House of Representatives current numbers

    This image shows the numbers in the House of Representatives.

  3. audio

    The Australian Constitution audio

    Listen to the complete text of the Australian Constitution.

    The full written text of the Australian Constitution can be read on The Australian Constitution online website.

  4. inFocus

    The Australian Constitution in focus

    The Australian Constitution is the legal framework for how Australia is governed. This paper explores in detail the history of the Constitution, its key features and the High Court’s role in interpreting it.

  5. icon_interactive interactive

    Parliament, Executive and Judiciary

    Explore how the power to make and manage law is shared in Australia with this interactive. It can be used in the classroom to illustrate the separation of powers.

  6. icon_interactive interactive

    Federal, state and local

    Do you know what each level of government is responsible for? Test your knowledge of the three levels of government in Australia with this game. Use in the classroom or just for fun.

  7. inFocus

    Three levels of government: governing Australia

    In Australia the three levels of government work together to provide us with the services we need. This in-depth paper explores the roles and responsibilities of each level, how they raise money and how they work together. Case studies show how the powers of the Australian Parliament have expanded.

  8. statistics

    Parliamentary statistics

    Keep up-to-date with the current numbers and work of the 48th Australian Parliament with these facts and figures.

  9. Session Notes: our teacher newsletter

    The Session Notes teacher newsletter features news from the Parliamentary Education Office. Find out about new resources and programs, and how the PEO can help you teach about the Australian Parliament.

  10. icon_interactive interactive

    Pass the bill

    This interactive details each step of the law-making process in the Australian Parliament. Users follow the progress of a bill to lower the voting age to 16 through the Australian Parliament. Perfect for use in the classroom.

  11. inFocus

    A short history of Parliament

    Compared to some other parliaments around the world, Australia's Parliament is quite young but it is based on practices and ideals from much older parliaments. This in-depth paper explores the development of the Westminster system in Britain and parliamentary democracy in Australia.

  12. inFocus

    The Federation of Australia

    Australia's Federation came about through a process of deliberation, consultation and debate. This in-depth paper explores the reasons for Federation, the Federation conventions and the referendums in which the Australian people decided to join together as a nation.

  13. inFocus

    Australia's Parliament House

    This in-depth look at Australia's Parliament House investigates why Canberra was chosen to be the nation's capital and why we needed a 'new' Parliament House. It includes the design, site and symbolism of the building.

  14. Prepare for your program

    Getting ready to participate in a PEO program? Here are some ideas and a sensory story to help your students get the most out of their program at Parliament House.

  15. icon_resources interactive

    Chatterboxes

    These fun to make chatterboxes feature questions and answers about parliamentary processes and the history of our Parliament. Quiz your students or challenge them to write their own questions using the templates.

  16. icon_sub-site website

    To our last shilling: the Australian Parliament and World War I

    Discover Australia’s experience of the First World War from the perspective of the Australian Parliament. From fixing the price of food to interning ‘enemy aliens’, the decisions made by the Parliament during the War affected the lives of everyday Australians. 

  17. Self-paced interactive learning

    Whether you're new to teaching civics, a seasoned educator, a pre-service teacher, or a curriculum leader – our free, self-paced, interactive courses are designed for you.

  18. icon_image image

    Four key ideas of Australian democracy

    This graphic illustrates the 4 supporting ideas of Australian democracy.

  19. icon_image image

    The usual path of a bill

    This graphic illustrates the usual path of a bill through the Australian Parliament to become Australian law.

  20. icon_image image

    Parliament of Australia

    This graphic illustrates the composition of the Australian Parliament.

  21. icon_image image

    People in Parliament

    This graphic shows some positions in the Australian Parliament and how they relate to each other.

  22. icon_image image

    How to form a political party

    This graphic shows the steps required to form a political party in Australia.

  23. icon_image image

    The role of the Senate

    This graphic illustrates the role of the Australian Senate.

  24. icon_image image

    The role of the House of Representatives

    This graphic illustrates the role of the House of Representatives.

  25. icon_image image

    From policy to law

    This graphic illustrates the role of the executive government in turning policy into law.

  26. inFocus

    Rights in Australia

    This paper investigates the framework of rights in Australia. It defines the different types of rights, including human rights, and looks at the many sources for our rights and how they are protected.

  27. Our commitment to child safety

    The Parliamentary Education Office is committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for young people and children. Find out how we are doing this and how you can report a complaint.

  28. factsheet

    Senate

    This fact sheet explores the Senate, which is part of the Australian Parliament. It includes information about the role, appearance and origins of the Senate.

  29. factsheet

    Mace

    The Mace is the symbol of the House of the Representatives. This fact sheet includes information about its function, design and history.

  30. factsheet

    Black Rod

    The Black Rod is a ceremonial staff carried by the Usher of the Black Rod while doing Senate work. With this fact sheet you will learn about the design, function and history of the Black Rod.

  31. factsheet

    Members of the House of Representatives

    Discover the work of members of the House of Representatives in this fact sheet. It explores their role in the Australian Parliament and in their local community, their working hours and period of service.

  32. factsheet

    Despatch Boxes

    This fact sheet explores the function, design and history of the Despatch Boxes that sit on the central table in the House of Representatives.

  33. factsheet

    Hansard

    The official written record of what is said in the Australian Parliament is called Hansard. This fact sheet explores the role of Hansard, why and how it is produced and its history.

  34. factsheet

    Frontbenchers and backbenchers

    This fact sheet investigates the work of frontbenchers (members of parliament who sit on the front seats of either the Senate or House of Representatives) and backbenchers (members of parliament who sit in the rows of seats behind the frontbench).

  35. factsheet

    Standing orders

    Standing orders are the rules used to manage the work of the Senate and the House of Representatives. This fact sheet explains how the standing orders are used in Parliament and how they can be changed.

  36. factsheet

    Independents

    An independent is a member of the Australian Parliament who does not belong to a political party. This fact sheet explores their role and how they can vote in the Parliament.

  37. factsheet

    Budget

    This fact sheet explores the Australian Government’s annual statement of how it plans to collect and spend money.

  38. factsheet

    Parliament House

    This fact sheet explores the building where the Australian Parliament meets. Discover key facts about the building and the symbolism of its design.

  39. factsheet

    Governor-General

    The Governor-General is the King’s representative in Australia. This fact sheet explains their role, including their part in the law-making process.

  40. factsheet

    Opposition

    Discover the opposition – the largest party or coalition of parties not in government – with this fact sheet. The opposition is sometimes called the ‘alternative government’ and has an important role closely examining the work of the government.

  41. factsheet

    Petitions

    Petitions ask the Australian Parliament to act on an issue. This fact sheet explains the rules petitions must follow and how petitions are presented to the Parliament.

  42. factsheet

    Crossing the floor

    If a member of a parliamentary party votes against their party it is called ‘crossing the floor’. This fact sheet explores how and when this happens and the possible outcomes of crossing the floor.

  43. factsheet

    Delegated law

    Delegated law gives government ministers and others the power to make decisions about the details of laws passed by the Australian Parliament. This fact sheet explains how regulations and other types of delegated law are made and overruled.

  44. factsheet

    Serjeant-at-Arms

    The Serjeant-at-Arms is a parliamentary officer in the House of Representatives. This fact sheet explores their role and the history of the position.

  45. factsheet

    Referendums and plebiscites

    A referendum is a vote of the Australian people on a proposed change to the Australian Constitution, while a plebiscite is a vote on an issue that does not affect the Constitution. This fact sheet explores the process of referendums and plebiscites in Australia.

  46. factsheet

    Cabinet

    Cabinet is the top decision-making group within the Australian Government. Find out more about who is in Cabinet and how it works with this fact sheet.

  47. factsheet

    Law-making

    This fact sheet explains the law-making process in the Australian Parliament. It also describes where ideas for laws come from and the history of law-making in the Parliament.

  48. factsheet

    Question Time

    This fact sheet explores Question Time, the time when the Australian Parliament examines the work of the government by asking them questions. It happens each sitting day in the Senate and the House of Representatives.

  49. factsheet

    Prime Minister

    Understand the role of the Prime Minister with this fact sheet, including how the Prime Minister is chosen and their responsibilities.

  50. factsheet

    Committees

    Parliamentary committees investigate issues and proposed laws in detail. This fact sheet explains the role of committees, how they work and the types of committees in the Australian Parliament.

  51. factsheet

    Federation

    In 1901, 6 British colonies united to become a new nation – the Commonwealth of Australia. This fact sheet examines the reasons for Federation, the path to Federation, the creation of the territories and the opening of the Australian Parliament.

  52. factsheet

    Senators

    Discover the work of senators in this fact sheet. It explores their role in the Australian Parliament and in the community, their working hours and period of service. 

  53. factsheet

    Government

    This fact sheet explores the responsibilities of the Australian Government, how it is formed, minority government and the principle of responsible government.

     

  54. factsheet

    Democracy

    This fact sheet introduces the idea of democracy and explores the key ideas which support Australia’s democratic system of government.

  55. factsheet

    Separation of powers: Parliament, Executive and Judiciary

    The separation of powers distributes the power to govern between the Parliament, the Executive and the Judiciary. This fact sheet examines the powers of each group and the related principle of responsible government.

  56. factsheet

    The responsibilities of the three levels of government

    This fact sheet introduces the three levels of government in Australia and lists some of the responsibilities of each level.

  57. factsheet

    Double dissolution

    What happens when there is a deadlock between the Senate and the House of Representatives? This fact sheet explores double dissolutions and joint sittings of the Australian Parliament.

  58. factsheet

    House of Representatives

    This fact sheet explores the House of Representatives, which is part of the Australian Parliament. It includes information about the role, appearance and origins of the House of Representatives.

  59. factsheet

    Press gallery

    Understand the role of the press gallery and its relationship with members of parliament and the public with this fact sheet.

  60. factsheet

    Senate estimates

    Several times a year, senators investigate how the government is spending public money in meetings called Senate estimates. This fact sheet examines the purpose, function and timing of Senate estimates.

  61. factsheet

    Party whip

    This factsheet explains the role of the party whip in Parliament including how they help keep political teams organised and working together.

  62. factsheet

    Australian system of government

    This fact sheet examines Australia’s system of government. It includes information about representative democracy, constitutional monarchy, federation and the separation of powers.

  63. factsheet

    Speaker of the House of Representatives

    Understand the role of the Speaker of the House of Representatives with this fact sheet. It includes information about how the Speaker is chosen, their role in the House and the history of the position.

  64. factsheet

    Australian Parliament

    This fact sheet outlines the composition and role of the Australian Parliament. 

  65. factsheet

    Australian Constitution

    This fact sheet explores the Australian Constitution. It includes information about the key features of the Constitution and how it can be changed.

  66. factsheet

    Rule of law

    The rule of law is a key feature of Australia’s democracy and legal system. This fact sheet explains the principle of the rule of law and its relationship to the separation of powers.

  67. factsheet

    Usher of the Black Rod

    Understand the role of the Usher of the Black Rod with this fact sheet. It describes their duties in the Senate and in the department, and the history of the position.

  68. factsheet

    Ministers and shadow ministers

    Understand the role of minsters and shadow ministers with this fact sheet. It describes what a minster is, how they are chosen and what their role is.

  69. factsheet

    Magna Carta

    This fact sheet explores the Magna Carta – the ‘Great Charter’. It includes information about the history of the Magna Carta and its importance in the development of democracy and human rights.

  70. factsheet

    Records of the Parliament

    Official records are kept of everything that is said and done in the Australian Parliament. This fact sheet explores these official records, including Hansard, Journals of the Senate and Votes and Proceedings.

  71. factsheet

    Political parties

    Political parties aim to have members elected to parliament. In this fact sheet, learn more about why they exist, how they are formed and how they are organised.

  72. factsheet

    Leader of the Opposition

    Get to know the role of the Leader of the Opposition with this fact sheet. Learn how the Leader of the Opposition is chosen and their responsibilities.

  73. factsheet

    Clerks

    Understand the role of the Clerks in the Senate and House of Representatives with this fact sheet. Learn about their work and the history of their positions.

  74. factsheet

    President of the Senate

    Understand the role of the President of the Senate with this fact sheet. It includes information about how the President is elected and their role in the Senate.

  75. factsheet

    Getting involved in Parliament

    This fact sheet explores some of the ways that Australians can get involved in the Australian Parliament. It includes information on elections, contacting members of parliament, committees and protesting.

  76. factsheet

    Federal elections

    This fact sheet explores how federal elections are used to select representatives in the Australian Parliament. It covers the process of electing senators and members of the House of Representatives.

  77. factsheet

    Amendments

    An amendment is a change to a proposed law. Amendments are an important part of the law-making process in the Australian Parliament. This fact sheet outlines the amendment process.

  78. factsheet

    Voting in Parliament

    Learn about voting in Australian Parliament with this fact sheet. It explains the 2 types of voting methods used to make decisions, and what happens when a vote is tied.

  79. factsheet

    National symbols in Parliament House

    This fact sheet gives details about some of Australia's national symbols and where they are featured in Australian Parliament House.  It explains the history and significance of Australia’s Coat of Arms, flags and floral emblem.

  80. factsheet

    From election to a new Parliament

    Regular federal elections are an important feature of Australia’s democracy. Investigate the process of closing Parliament, the transition between Parliaments and the opening of a new Parliament in Australia with this fact sheet.

  81. factsheet

    Sources of law

    This fact sheet introduces the different ways law is made Australia – statute law made by parliament, delegated law made by the Executive government and common law made in courts.

  82. factsheet

    Parliament and the courts

    This fact sheet outlines the relationship between the Australian Parliament and federal courts, including the separation of powers and key High Court of Australia cases that have impacted the powers of the Australian Parliament.

  83. Teacher Feedback Group

    Thank you for your interest in joining our teacher feedback group. The Parliamentary Education Office (PEO) is seeking your expertise in the review of our programs, resources and services with the aim of providing contemporary, relevant and engaging experiences for teachers, students and the general public.

  84. factsheet

    Rights

    On this fact sheet, find out about where rights in Australia come from, types of rights and how rights are considered when Parliament makes laws.

  85. icon_interactive interactive

    Build your own budget

    Be the Australian Government and create your own budget. Decide how to spend your billions of tax-payer dollars.

  86. factsheet

    The monarch

    This fact sheet explains the role of the monarch in the Australian Parliament. Find out why Australia has the King as our head of state and what power the King has in Australia.

  87. icon_interactive interactive

    Discover Parliament House

    Explore the different areas of Parliament House in this interactive model by selecting the labels.

  88. icon_interactive interactive

    Will your referendum pass?

    Change the results of a referendum to see if it is successful.

  89. icon_interactive interactive

    What senators do in the Australian Parliament

    Tap on the icons to explore the work that senators do in Parliament and their state or territory.  

  90. icon_interactive interactive

    What members do in the Australian Parliament

    Tap on the icons to explore the work that members of the House of Representatives do in Parliament and their electorates.

  91. factsheet

    Minor parties

    Learn about the role of minor parties in the Australian Parliament with this fact sheet. Find out how minor parties can hold the balance of power and influence a hung parliament.

  92. icon_image image

    Preferential voting example

    This graphic illustrates the process of distributing votes to elect a member in the House of Representatives.

  93. Statistics of the 47th Parliament

    View the facts and figures of the work of the 47th Australian Parliament.

  94. icon_image image

    How governments in Australia raise and spend money

    This graphic illustrates the how the three different levels of government get their income and what they spend it on.

  95. factsheet

    National Cabinet

    National Cabinet is a meeting where leaders of the Australian and state and territory governments work together. Find out more about how National Cabinet works with this fact sheet.

  96. Overview

    Overview by the Australian Government Solicitor.

  97. Foundations

    Australia’s system of government was influenced by the British and United States systems. The parliamentary and executive aspects of Australia’s political system come mainly from Britain, while the Australian federal design is derived mainly from the US. Explore the links below to find out more about the documents and the history which shaped our Constitution.

  98. Journey towards independence

    At the time of Federation over three-quarters of the population were Australian-born. Over time people began to identify as Australian rather than British and this led to greater independence for our system of government and legal framework. The documents below changed Australia’s relationship with Britain and strengthened our sense of national identity.

  99. icon_image image

    Rules and laws

    This graphic illustrates differences between rules and laws.

  100. icon_image image

    How to change the Australian Constitution

    This graphic illustrates the process to change the Australian Constitution.

  101. icon_image image

    Double majority

    This graphic illustrates the double majority requirement to change the Australian Constitution.

  102. Parliament and its people

    The Australian Parliament is made up of the King—represented by the Governor-General—the Senate and the House of Representatives. Discover the Parliament, the Australian Government, opposition, and the people who help the Parliament do its work.

  103. History of Parliament

    The Australian Parliament is over 100 years old but some of its practices and traditions are centuries older. Explore the history of the Australian Parliament including the Magna Carta, federation, the First World War and more recent milestones.

  104. Units of work

    Explore parliamentary education in the classroom with these units of work aligned to the Australian Civics and Citizenship Curriculum V9.0.

  105. People in Parliament

    Meet the people who work in the Australian Parliament. From the Prime Minister to the media, hundreds of people participate in and make sure Parliament can do its work.

  106. Government

    The Australian Government puts Australian law into action, provides government services and makes decisions on behalf of the nation. Learn more about the Australian Government, including how it is formed, Cabinet and its role.

  107. Bills and laws

    Everything you need to know about the law-making process in the Australian Parliament. Discover the path of a bill, how laws are changed and the different types of laws.

  108. Getting involved

    Explore the ways you can have your say and contribute to the work of the Australian Parliament. From voting to petitions, contacting members of parliament to protesting, there are many ways Australians can have their voice heard in Parliament.

  109. How Parliament works

    Experience the work of the Parliament with these adaptable classroom activities.

  110. Images and copyright/privacy/disclaimer

    We encourage you to reuse content from the PEO website. Find out the copyright requirements of the site, and read our privacy statement and website disclaimer.

  111. icon_quiz quiz

    Australian Parliament

    Test your understanding of the history, make-up and people of the Australian Parliament with this quick quiz.

  112. icon_quiz quiz

    Getting involved

    There are many ways Australians can have their say about decisions made by the Australian Parliament. Take this quiz to discover some ways you can get involved.

  113. icon_quiz quiz

    Separation of powers

    Test your knowledge of the separation of powers—an important principle of Australia's democracy—with this fun quiz.

  114. Year 5

    The PEO has a range of resources to assist teachers in their delivery of the content descriptions for the Civics and Citizenship subject of the Year 5 HASS learning area in the Australian Curriculum V9.0. 

  115. Year 8

    The PEO has a range of resources to assist teachers in their delivery of the content descriptions for the Year 8 Civics and Citizenship learning area in the Australian Curriculum V9.0. 

  116. Glossary

    Use this helpful glossary to browse or search the meanings of key parliamentary terms.

  117. History milestones

    Explore the history of our Parliament from the Magna Carta to now with these resources. Topics include the development of the concept of parliament, the role of the Australian Parliament in World War I and the activism that led to the 1967 referendum.

  118. System of government

    Understand Australia’s democratic system of government, including the separation of powers and responsible government.

  119. icon_quiz quiz

    Forming the Australian Government

    How much do you know about how the Australian Government is formed? Test your knowledge with this fun quiz.

  120. Group organisation table

    Use this table to organise your class into groups for the Interpret the Constitution classroom activity.

  121. Year 3

    The PEO has a range of resources to assist teachers in their delivery of the content descriptions for the Civics and Citizenship subject of the Year 3 HASS learning area in the Australian Curriculum V9.0.   

  122. interactive

    The Australian Constitution

    Reveal each section of the Australian Constitution with this interactive poster. It includes information on how the Constitution can be changed. Use the teaching notes and activities to support your students' learning. 

  123. interactive

    The Australian Parliament

    Introduce the Australian Parliament, its component parts and its role in your classroom with this interactive poster. Use the teaching notes and activities to support your students' learning. 

  124. interactive

    Choosing senators

    Discover who represents us in the Senate and how they are chosen with this interactive poster. Use the teaching notes and activities to support your students' learning. 

  125. interactive

    Making Australian law

    Understand the process of making a law in the Australian Parliament with this interactive poster. Use the teaching notes and activities to support your students' learning.

  126. icon_quiz quiz

    Knowledge check: the Australian Constitution

    Test your knowledge after reading the Australian Constitution fact sheet.

  127. website

    The Australian Constitution online

    The Australian Constitution is the set of rules by which Australia is run. It describes the structure, role and powers of the Australian Parliament, and sets out how the Australian and state parliaments share the power to make laws. It also details the roles of the executive government and the High Court of Australia.

    View or listen to the full text of the Australian Constitution here. Below you will also find supplementary information.

  128. icon_australia-constitution Constitution

    Chapter I

    The Parliament and how it can use its powers

  129. icon_australia-constitution Constitution

    Part III

  130. icon_australia-constitution Constitution

    Chapter II

    The role of the King, the Governor-General and ministers

  131. icon_australia-constitution Constitution

    Chapter V

    The rights and powers of the States

  132. icon_australia-constitution Constitution

    Chapter VIII

    How the Constitution can be changed

  133. Having your say

    All Australians can have their say about decisions made by the Australian Parliament. At federal elections, we select the people who represent us in Parliament. We can also be active citizens by signing a petition, getting involved in a committee inquiry and contacting our members of parliament.

  134. House of Representatives

    The House of Representatives is part of the Australian Parliament. It is the house in which the Australian Government is formed and has an important role representing the views of Australians and making laws for Australia.

  135. The Australian Constitution

    Discover the history, features and function of the Australian Constitution—the set of rules by which Australia is run. The Constitution guides the composition of the Australian Parliament, what it can make laws about and how the Australian Parliament and state parliaments share power.

  136. Parliament at work

    There is always a lot happening in the Australian Parliament. Discover the latest news from your Parliament and information about how it does its work.

  137. Elections and voting

    Discover how senators and members of the House of Representatives are elected by the Australian people to the Australian Parliament. Explore what a double dissolution is and how the Australian people can have their say on big issues in referendums and plebiscites.

  138. Parliament and its people

    Discover the concepts that underpin our democracy in these adaptable classroom activities.

  139. Videos for teachers

    Immerse your students in the Australian Parliament by creating a parliament in your classroom. These videos show you how to debate in the House of Representatives and the Senate, and how to investigate bills and issues in committees.

  140. Accessibility

    The PEO website has been designed to meet the Australian Government standard established for web accessibility.

  141. icon_quiz quiz

    Australian Constitution

    How much do you know about the Australian Constitution – the set of rules by which Australia is run? Do you know how these rules are changed through a referendum? Test your knowledge with this fun quiz.

  142. icon_quiz quiz

    Federal elections

    Australians vote to elect members of the Australian Parliament to make laws and decisions on their behalf. Find out how much you know about the process with this fun quiz.

  143. icon_quiz quiz

    The role of the media

    The media provides information and stories about the Australian Parliament. But how much do you know about their role? Take this quick quiz to find out.

  144. icon_quiz quiz

    Sources of law

    Test your recollection of the ways that law is made in Australia statute, common and delegated with this quick quiz.

  145. Parliament House

    Parliament House in Canberra is home to Australia's Parliament. It is a place where decisions that shape our nation are made, and a place for celebration, memorial and sometimes protest. Most importantly, it is a place for all Australians.

  146. Year 7

    The PEO has a range of resources to assist teachers in their delivery of the content descriptions for the Year 7 Civics and Citizenship learning area in the Australian Curriculum V9.0. 

  147. Year 10

    The PEO has a range of resources to assist teachers in their delivery of the content descriptions for the Year 10 Civics and Citizenship learning area in the Australian Curriculum V9.0. 

  148. icon_quiz quiz

    The Senate

    How much do you know about the Senate—one of the two houses of the Australian Parliament? Test your knowledge with this fun quiz.

  149. Group organisation table

    Use this table to organise your class into groups for the Negotiate a minority government classroom activity.

  150. interactive

    Separation of powers

    Explore the separation of powers with your class with this interactive poster. Use the teaching notes and activities to support your students' learning. 

  151. interactive

    The Senate

    Discover the people who work in the Senate with this interactive poster. Highlight the groupings of senators and test yourself on who sits where. Use the teaching notes and activities to support your students' learning. 

  152. interactive

    Choosing members

    Discover who represents us in the House of Representatives and how they are chosen with this interactive poster. Use the teaching notes and activities to support your students' learning. 

  153. Social Media Acceptable Use Guidelines

    Conditions and expectations when engaging with us on social media.

  154. icon_quiz quiz

    Knowledge check: the Governor-General

    How much do you know about the role of Governor-General? Test your knowledge with this fun short quiz.

  155. Opposition

    The opposition is the largest party – or coalition of parties – that does not have the support of the majority of members in the House of Representatives. The opposition has an important role in keeping the government accountable to the Australian Parliament.

  156. Crossbench

    The crossbench is made up of the minor parties and the independents. Discover more about these members of parliament and how they have an important role in closely examining the work of the government.

  157. icon_australia-constitution Constitution

    Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act

    [9th July 1900]

    WHEREAS the people of New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Queensland, and Tasmania, humbly relying on the blessing of Almighty God, have agreed to unite in one indissoluble Federal Commonwealth under the Crown of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, and under the Constitution hereby established:

    And whereas it is expedient to provide for the admission into the Commonwealth of other Australasian Colonies and possessions of the Queen:

    Be it therefore enacted…
  158. icon_australia-constitution Constitution

    Part II

  159. icon_australia-constitution Constitution

    Part V

  160. icon_australia-constitution Constitution

    Chapter IV

    How government is to manage money and do business with state governments

  161. icon_australia-constitution Constitution

    Chapter VII

    The location of the National Capital and other issues

  162. Create political parties

    Investigate how the party system operates in Australia by creating your own political parties.

  163. Run an election campaign

    Experience an election campaign in your classroom by analysing political advertisements and then developing your own campaigns! This activity can also be completed as an extension to the Create political parties actvity.

  164. Explore decision-making

    How do our representatives make decisions? Find out by exploring different forms of decision-making in this classroom activity.

  165. Hold a referendum

    Investigate a potential change to the Constitution and then decide – as a nation – whether or not the change should be made.

  166. Federation – A federal story?

    Explore the reasons why the authors of the Australian Constitution designed our Parliament to have both a Senate and a House of Representatives. 

  167. Explore the three levels of government

    Explore the three levels of government – federal, state, and local – with this classroom activity. Investigate the responsibilities of each level by forming taskforces to respond to major events. 

  168. Make a law: House of Representatives

    Discover how bills ─ proposed laws – are introduced, debated and voted on in the House of Representatives by turning your class into a Parliament and doing it yourselves.

  169. Make a law: Senate

    Discover how bills – proposed laws – are introduced, debated and voted on in the Senate by turning your class into a Parliament and doing it yourselves!

  170. Make speeches

    Discover the different types of speeches given by senators and members by writing your own. Use this activity to further explore the work of the Parliament or to give context to oral presentations in any classroom.

  171. Run a parliamentary committee

    Explore how individuals and communities can assist the Australian Parliament to investigate bills and important issues by running a parliamentary committee with your class.

  172. Unpack democracy

    What is democracy and how does it work in Australia? Use these discussion starters to kick start your classroom conversation.

  173. Create your own electorate

    Explore the role of members of parliament and how they represent communities around Australia.

  174. Draft a Bill of Rights for Australia

    Should Australia have its own Bill of Rights? Analyse arguments for and against an Australian Bill of Rights, then have a go at drafting one yourself.

  175. Negotiate a minority government

    Role-play a high stakes parliamentary negotiation in order to learn how government is formed in a hung parliament.

  176. Run a Cabinet meeting

    Investigate how Cabinet makes decisions by working together to negotiate the best policy outcome.

  177. Negotiate in National Cabinet

    Role-play as the federal and state levels of government as they work together to manage issues and provide services for the whole of Australia.

  178. Interpret the Constitution

    Discover how the High Court of Australia rules on constitutional disputes by role-playing the hypothetical case of Lee v Electoral Commissioner.

  179. Write a committee submission

    Get involved in Australia’s Parliament by investigating current parliamentary committees and writing a submission!

  180. Year 3

    This sequence of learning covers the knowledge and understanding content descriptions for the Civics and Citizenship subject of the Year 3 HASS learning area in the Australian Curriculum V9.0.

  181. Year 4

    This sequence of learning covers the knowledge and understanding content descriptions for the Civics and Citizenship subject of the Year 4 HASS learning area in the Australian Curriculum V9.0.

  182. Year 5

    This sequence of learning covers the knowledge and understanding content descriptions for the Civics and Citizenship subject of the Year 5 HASS learning area in the Australian Curriculum V9.0.

  183. Year 6

    This sequence of learning covers the knowledge and understanding content descriptions for the Civics and Citizenship subject of the Year 6 HASS learning area in the Australian Curriculum V9.0.

  184. Year 7

    This sequence of learning covers the knowledge and understanding content descriptions for the Year 7 Civics and Citizenship learning area in the Australian Curriculum V9.0.

  185. Year 8

    This sequence of learning covers the knowledge and understanding content descriptions for the Year 8 Civics and Citizenship learning area in the Australian Curriculum V9.0.

  186. Year 9

    This sequence of learning covers the knowledge and understanding content descriptions for the Year 9 Civics and Citizenship learning area in the Australian Curriculum V9.0.

  187. Year 10

    This sequence of learning covers the knowledge and understanding content descriptions for the Year 10 Civics and Citizenship learning area in the Australian Curriculum V9.0.

  188. Write a new Constitution

    What would you include in a new Constitution? Analyse the Australian Constitution and decide what to keep and what to change in this classroom activity. 

  189. Rules and laws

    Discover the difference between rules and laws with this sorting activity.

  190. Fair rules

    Explore why it is important for rules to be clear and fair with this drawing activity.

  191. How Parliament works

    How the Australian Parliament works is set out in the Australian Constitution and is influenced by the separation of powers and the three levels of government. Explore how the Parliament does its work including how laws are made.

  192. Curriculum links

    PEO resources are designed to directly meet the Years 3 to 10 Australian Civics and Citizenship Curriculum V9.0.

    Relevant resources are grouped according to content descriptions.

  193. Education resources

    Get support to teach about the Australian Parliament in your classroom with Parliamentary Education Office resources. We have printed publications, news for teachers, and videos and quizzes which support the Australian Civics and Citizenship Curriculum V9.0.

  194. Senate

    The Senate is part of the Australian Parliament. It has an important role representing the views of Australians, making laws for Australia, investigating national issues and examining the work of the government.

  195. Three levels of government

    The three levels of government is a key feature of the Australian system of government. Discover the roles and responsibilities of the federal Parliament, state and territory parliaments and local councils, and how they work together to deliver services to Australians.

  196. Referencing

    Information to help you reference content from the PEO website.

  197. icon_quiz quiz

    Bills and laws

    How does the Australian Parliament make laws for Australia? Revise your study of law-making with this quiz.

  198. icon_quiz quiz

    The role of political parties

    Test your knowledge of political parties in the Australian Parliament with this fun quiz. It includes key parliamentary terms such as 'hung parliament' and 'crossing the floor'.

  199. icon_quiz quiz

    Three levels of government

    Australia has three levels of government that work together to provide Australians with the services they need. Learn more about the three levels of government with this quiz.

  200. Federation

    Federation is the process by which 6 partly self-governing British colonies decided to form a new nation. Australia was created by peaceful means as an Act of the British Parliament—the result of much consideration and debate.

  201. Year 6

    The PEO has a range of resources to assist teachers in their delivery of the content descriptions for the Civics and Citizenship subject of the Year 6 HASS learning area in the Australian Curriculum V9.0. 

  202. Year 9

    The PEO has a range of resources to assist teachers in their delivery of the content descriptions for the Year 9 Civics and Citizenship learning area in the Australian Curriculum V9.0. 

  203. Having your say

    Explore Australia’s system of government with these adaptable classroom activities.

  204. icon_quiz quiz

    The House of Representatives

    How much do you know about the House of Representatives – one of the two houses of the Australian Parliament? Test your knowledge with this fun quiz.

  205. Cabinet extension activity

    Cabinet rarely has only one policy proposal to debate and decide upon. In reality, ministers have to balance many priorities when making decisions. Go further and challenge your student Cabinet with this activity.

  206. Year 4

    The PEO has a range of resources to assist teachers in their delivery of the content descriptions for the Civics and Citizenship subject of the Year 4 HASS learning area in the Australian Curriculum V9.0.  

  207. interactive

    Three levels of government

    Explore Australia’s three levels of government with your class with this interactive poster. Use the teaching notes and activities to support your students' learning. 

  208. interactive

    The House of Representatives

    Discover the people who work in the House of Representatives with this interactive poster. Highlight the groupings of members and test yourself on who sits where. Use the teaching notes and activities to support your students' learning. 

  209. interactive

    Forming the Australian government

    Find out how the Australian government is formed and who makes up the Executive with this interactive poster. Use the teaching notes and activities to support your students' learning. 

  210. icon_quiz quiz

    Knowledge check: democracy

    How much do you know about Australia's democracy? Test your knowledge with this fun quiz.

  211. icon_australia-constitution Constitution

    Part I

  212. icon_australia-constitution Constitution

    Part IV

  213. icon_australia-constitution Constitution

    Chapter III

    The role of the courts

  214. icon_australia-constitution Constitution

    Chapter VI

    How new Australian States can be formed

  215. icon_australia-constitution Constitution

    Schedule

    Oath
    I, A.B., do swear that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Victoria, Her heirs and successors according to law. SO HELP ME GOD!

    Affirmation
    I, A.B., do solemnly and sincerely affirm and declare that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Victoria, Her heirs and successors according to law.

    (NOTE – The name of the King or Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland for the time being is to be substituted from time to time.…
  216. icon_video video

    The Senate

    Discover the role and work of the Australian Senate with this introductory video.

  217. icon_video video

    The House of Representatives

    Discover the role and work of the Australian House of Representatives with this introductory video.

  218. icon_video video

    The Constitution

    This short video introduces the Australian Constitution – the rules by which Australia is run.

  219. icon_video video

    Three levels of government

    Get an introduction to the three levels of government with this short video. It explores the areas each level can make laws about.

  220. icon_video video

    Role-play the Parliament: House of Representatives

    This video demonstrates a House of Representatives parliamentary role-play, where students can learn how new laws are made in the Australian Parliament. It outlines lesson content and what preparation is required to use this immersive learning strategy in a classroom.

  221. icon_video video

    Role-play the Parliament: Senate

    This video demonstrates a Senate parliamentary role-play, where students can learn how new laws are made in the Australian Parliament. It outlines lesson content and what preparation is required to use this immersive learning strategy in a classroom.

  222. icon_video video

    Role-play the Parliament: Committee

    This video demonstrates a committee role-play, where students can learn how the Australian Parliament investigates bills and issues. It outlines lesson content and what preparation is required to use this immersive learning strategy in a classroom.

  223. icon_video video

    Role-play the Parliament: the role-play in action

    This video shows a snapshot of a parliamentary role-play in the Education Centre at Australia’s Parliament House.

  224. icon_video video

    Making a law

    Get an introduction to the law-making process of the Australian Parliament with this short video. It includes all the law-making steps in the Senate and House of Representatives.

  225. icon_video video

    The opening of a new Parliament

    There are many steps in the process of opening a new parliament. Find out the timings, traditions and requirements of establishing a new Australian Parliament with this in-depth video.

  226. icon_video video

    Parliamentary committees

    Explore how committees in the Australian Parliament are formed, their function and how they support the work of the Senate and House of Representatives with this explanatory video.

  227. icon_video video

    Question Time in the Australian Parliament

    In Question Time members of parliament ask the government to explain its actions and decisions. This video explores the purpose, function and format of Question Time in the Senate and House of Representatives.

  228. icon_video video

    Get involved

    Explore ways you can get involved in the work of Parliament with this in-depth video. Find out how you can get informed about the work of the Parliament, contact and vote for members of parliament, petition the Parliament and participate in parliamentary inquiries.

  229. icon_video video

    One voice for many

    This video explores representation. It can be used as a visual aid in discussing representation with students.

  230. icon_video video

    Australia's Federation

    Discover the story behind Federation in Australia with this introductory video.

  231. icon_video video

    Usher of the Black Rod video

    Meet the Usher of the Black Rod in this informative video. Learn about their role in the Senate and the department, the symbolism of the Black Rod and the history of the position.

  232. icon_video video

    What is Parliament?

    Discover the structure and key functions of the Australian Parliament with this short video. It introduces the Parliament’s roles of law-making, representing Australians, the formation of government and checking the work of the government.

  233. icon_video video

    1967 referendum

    In 1967 the majority of Australians voted to change the Australian Constitution to count Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the national census. This video from the ABC’s Behind the News explores how the 1967 referendum was part of a movement for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ rights.

  234. icon_video video

    Preferential voting

    When you vote for your local member of the House of Representatives you need to decide who you like the most, the second most and so on. Discover why preferences matter on election day with the ABC’s Behind the News.

  235. icon_video video

    Levels of government

    In a land called Australia, 3 superheroes fight for the people. Discover their powers and those of the three levels of government they are named after with this video. From the ABC’s Behind the News.

  236. icon_video video

    The role of the Governor-General

    Meet Her Excellency, the Governor-General and learn about their role in the Parliament as the representative of Australia's monarch.

  237. icon_video video

    Canberra from above

    Discover where Australian Parliament House sits within the capital city of Australia, Canberra.

  238. Tenterfield Oration

  239. Invalid and Old-age Pensions Act 1908

  240. Euthanasia Laws Act 1997

  241. Commonwealth Electoral Legislation Amendment Act 1983

  242. New national anthem

  243. First woman Speaker

  244. Australia declares war

  245. Australian Marriage Law Postal Survey

  246. First Indigenous member of the House of Representatives

  247. Federation referendum

  248. Defence Act 1903

  249. 1916 conscription plebiscite

  250. Change of voting age

  251. Medicare starts

  252. Social welfare referendum

  253. Flags Act 1953

  254. Creation of Australia

  255. Pacific Islanders Labourers Act 1901

  256. Seat of Government Act 1908

  257. Provisional Parliament House opens

  258. Nationality and Citizenship Act 1948

  259. Harvester Judgement

  260. Territory senators

  261. First election using preferential voting

  262. Freedom of Information Act

  263. Commonwealth Electoral Act 1962

  264. Prime Minister Bruce loses his seat

  265. Yirrkala petitions

  266. Australian Constitution

  267. Compulsory enrolment for elections

  268. Proclamation of Commonwealth Territories

  269. First woman President of the Senate

  270. First Indigenous member of parliament

  271. Immigration Restriction Act 1901

  272. First woman appointed to the High Court

  273. The Premiers’ Plan

  274. The Whitlam dismissal

  275. First Australian-born Governor-General

  276. Commonwealth Franchise Act 1902

  277. Maternity Allowance Act 1912

  278. Australasian Federation Conference

  279. Judiciary Act 1903

  280. Commonwealth Electoral Act 1924

  281. Commonwealth Bank Act 1911

  282. Federal press gallery established

  283. First parliamentary broadcast

  284. First woman appointed to a Cabinet position

  285. Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Power Act 1949

  286. Commonwealth Workmen’s Compensation Act 1912

  287. Australia becomes a founding member of the United Nations

  288. Internment of enemy aliens

  289. ANZUS treaty

  290. Australia's first peacekeeping commitment

  291. The 'Petrov Affair'

  292. Marriage bar abolished

  293. Gove Land Rights Case

  294. First Indigenous woman senator

  295. Minority government

  296. National Apology to Victims and Survivors of Institutionalised Child Sexual Abuse

  297. First woman Governor-General

  298. Treaty of Versailles

  299. First double dissolution

  300. Western Australian secession referendum

  301. Australian Broadcasting Commission Act 1932

  302. The National Disability Insurance Scheme begins

  303. Sex Discrimination Act 1984

  304. First woman Prime Minister

  305. Opening of Parliament begins with Welcome to Country

  306. Apology to the Stolen Generations

  307. First women in the Australian Parliament

  308. Joint sitting of Parliament

  309. Australian Parliament House opened

  310. First Indigenous woman member of the House of Representatives

  311. Goods and Services Tax

  312. Administration of Papua

  313. First federal referendum

  314. Centenary of Federation

  315. Republic referendum

  316. Aboriginal Tent Embassy

  317. NT granted self-government

  318. Australia's first overseas territory

  319. School Chaplaincy Case

  320. Wireless Telegraphy Act 1905

  321. High Court rules on the Franklin Dam Case

  322. Main Roads Development Act 1923

  323. Prime Minister Joseph Lyons dies

  324. Archives Act 1983

  325. First woman leader of a federal political party

  326. War Precautions Act 1914

  327. Mabo decision

  328. First Vietnam moratorium march

  329. Advisory War Council

  330. The Boilermakers Case

  331. 1967 referendum

  332. Statute of Westminster Adoption Act 1942

  333. Income Tax (War-Time Arrangements) Act

  334. Copyright Act 1968

  335. Equal Pay Case

  336. Gurindji walk off Wave Hill

  337. Migration Act 1966

  338. Bank Nationalisation Case

  339. Uluru Statement from the Heart

  340. The Conciliation and Arbitration Act 1904

  341. ACT granted self-government

  342. End of appeals from the High Court to the Privy Council

  343. Australia Act 1986

  344. Convention on the Rights of the Child

  345. Federation Chamber formed

  346. Colombo Plan

  347. The Engineers Case 

  348. Hansard published online

  349. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice referendum

  350. National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1975

  351. National Firearms Agreement

  352. United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

  353. Communist Party Dissolution Act 1950

  354. The Labor Party split

  355. Corowa Conference

  356. Lange v ABC

  357. States Grants (Science Laboratories and Technical Training) Act 1964

  358. Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024

  359. AC9HS6K06

    AC9HS6K06 - The key institutions of Australia’s system of government, how it is based on the Westminster system, and the key values and beliefs of Western democracies.
  360. AC9HS3K06

    AC9HS3K06 - Who makes rules, why rules are important in the school and/or the local community, and the consequences of rules not being followed.
  361. AC9HS3K07

    AC9HS3K07 - Why people participate within communities and how students can actively participate and contribute to communities.
  362. AC9HS6K07

    AC9HS6K07 - The roles and responsibilities of the 3 levels of government in Australia.
  363. AC9HC7K01

    AC9HC7K01 - The key features of Australia's system of government, including democracy, the Australian Constitution, responsible government and federalism.
  364. AC9HC7K02

    AC9HC7K02 - The characteristics of Australia's democracy, including freedom of speech, association, assembly, religion and movement.
  365. AC9HC7K03

    AC9HC7K03 - The key principles and features of the Australian legal system, including the Australian Constitution, the rule of law and the court system.
  366. AC9HC9K01

    AC9HC9K01 - The role of the Australian Constitution in providing the basis for Australia’s federal system of government and democratic processes, including institutions, and the process for constitutional change through a referendum.
  367. AC9HC7K04

    AC9HC7K04 - How Australia’s secular democracy and pluralist, multi-faith society draws upon diverse cultural origins, including Christian and Western heritage, distinct First Nations Australian histories and cultures, and migrant communities.
  368. AC9HC7K05

    AC9HC7K05 - How values based on freedom, respect, fairness and equality of opportunity can support social cohesion and democracy within Australian society.
  369. AC9HC8K02

    AC9HC8K02 - The role of political parties and independent representatives in Australian democracy, including elections and the formation of governments.
  370. AC9HC8K01

    AC9HC8K01 - How Australians are informed about and participate in democracy
  371. AC9HC9K02

    AC9HC9K02 - The legislative processes through which federal government policy is shaped, developed and implemented.
  372. AC9HC9K03

    AC9HC9K03 - The key features and jurisdictions of Australia’s court system, and the operations of courts and tribunals.
  373. AC9HC8K03

    AC9HC8K03 - The characteristics of laws and how laws are made in Australia through parliaments (statutory law) and through the courts (common law).
  374. AC9HC9K04

    AC9HC9K04 - The role of courts, judges, lawyers and juries in trials, and the rights of the accused and the rights of victims.
  375. AC9HC9K05

    AC9HC9K05 - How and why individuals and groups, including community, religious and cultural groups, participate in and contribute to civic life in Australia and to global citizenship.
  376. AC9HC9K06

    AC9HC9K06 - The influence of a range of media, including social media, in shaping identity and attitudes to diversity.
  377. AC9HS4K07

    AC9HS4K07 - The differences between “rules” and “laws”, why laws are important and how they affect the lives of people.
  378. AC9HS4K08

    AC9HS4K08 - The roles of local government and how members of the community use and contribute to local services.
  379. AC9HS5K06

    AC9HS5K06 - The key values and features of Australia’s democracy, including elections, and the roles and responsibilities of elected representatives.
  380. AC9HS5K07

    AC9HS5K07 - How citizens (members of communities) with shared beliefs and values work together to achieve a civic goal.
  381. AC9HC10K01

    AC9HC10K01 - The key features and values of Australia’s system of government compared with at least one other democratic or non-democratic system of government in the Asia-Pacific region.
  382. AC9HC8K04

    AC9HC8K04 - The types of law in Australia, including criminal law and civil law, and the place of First Nations Australian customary law.
  383. AC9HC8K05

    AC9HC8K05 - How culture and religion may influence individuals' and groups' perceptions and expressions of citizenship and their actions as citizens.
  384. AC9HC8K06

    AC9HC8K06 - Different experiences of, perspectives on and debates about Australia’s national identity and citizenship, including the perspectives of First Nations Australians as owners of their respective nations, and of different migrant groups.
  385. AC9HC10K02

    AC9HC10K02 - The Australian Government’s role and responsibilities at a regional and global level.
  386. AC9HC10K03

    AC9HC10K03 - The role of the parliament and the High Court of Australia in protecting rights under the Constitution, common law, and through federal and state statute law.
  387. AC9HC10K04

    AC9HC10K04 - How Australia’s international legal obligations shape Australian law and government policies, including those relating to First Nations Australians, and the issues related to the application of these obligations.
  388. AC9HC10K05

    AC9HC10K05 - The challenges to and ways of sustaining a resilient democracy and a cohesive society in Australia and/or in our region or globally.
  389. introducing

    Introducing ... the three levels of government

    Begin your exploration of the three levels of government in Australia with this short introduction. Discover the responsibilities of the federal Parliament, state and territory parliaments and local government, and how they work together.

  390. introducing

    Introducing ... the Australian Constitution

    Begin your exploration of the Australian Constitution with this short introduction. Learn how the Constitution came into effect and what it takes to change it.

  391. introducing

    Introducing ... Federation

    Begin your exploration of Federation with this short introduction. Find out the arguments for Federation and the process that led to the creation of Australia.

  392. introducing

    Introducing ... rules and laws

    Begin your exploration of rules and laws with this short introduction. Find out the differences between rules and laws, and who needs to follow them.

  393. introducing

    Introducing ... Australia's system of government

    Begin your exploration of the features of Australia’s system of government with this short introduction. Discover how power is shared and managed between different groups in Australia.

  394. Quizzes

    Have a go at these quizzes about the Australian Parliament. You might even learn something you didn’t know! Topics include the three levels of government, separation of powers and the Australian Constitution.

  395. No results were found. Please try searching again.