A
- absolute majority
(see also simple majority)
More than half the votes of the total number of members of the House of Representatives or the Senate.- abstain
In Parliament, to choose not to vote.
- accountable
To be responsible for one's actions.
- Act or Act of Parliament
A law made by a parliament.
More information: Making a law- adjourn
To postpone or suspend.
- adjournment debate
A debate at the end of each sitting day when members of parliament make short speeches on any topic.
- adversarial
A contest between two or more sides representing different positions or holding different views.
- alderman
(see councillor)
- amendment
A change to a bill, an Act of Parliament or motion.
More information: Amendments- appropriation bill
A bill to allow the government to spend money.
More information: Budget- assistant minister
A member of the government who assists a minister with their work.
More information: Ministers and Shadow Ministers- Australian Constitution
The set of rules by which Australia is governed, describing the powers of the Australian Parliament, the Australian Government and the High Court of Australia.
More information: Australian Constitution- Australian Electoral Commission
The organisation responsible for running national elections and referendums.
More information: Federal elections- Australian Government
The federal government that puts Australian law into action, provides national government services and makes decisions on behalf of the nation.
More information: Government- Australian Parliament
The national Parliament, consisting of the King (represented by the Governor-General), the Senate and the House of Representatives.
More information: Australian Parliament- aye
(see also no)
The expression used in Parliament to indicate a 'yes' vote.
More information: Voting in Parliament