How is government policy is shaped and developed by the Prime Minister and Cabinet?

Great question, Kathy!

Cabinet is made up of the Prime Minister and top-level ministers, and is the main decision-making body of the Australian Government. The Cabinet’s role is to direct government policy and make decisions about national issues, including which government bills—proposed laws—should be introduced in the Australian Parliament.

For example, if the Cabinet decides to introduce a bill to do with health, it will ask the Minister for Health to work with the Department of Health to prepare the bill.

The Cabinet can also direct a government department to investigate an issue and make recommendations to best address it. A Cabinet decision might:

  • explore how current policy or law is interpreted and enacted, and whether an amendment (a change to an existing law) is required.

  • consider current policy and identify if a new law is required.
A group of people having a meeting sit both sides of a wooden table. The men and women look towards the camera.

The Cabinet in session.

DPS Auspic

The Cabinet in session.

A group of people having a meeting sit both sides of a wooden table. The men and women look towards the camera.

DPS Auspic

Description

A group of people sit on both sides of a wooden table. The men and women look towards the camera. It looks as if their meeting has been interrupted because there are papers and water glasses on the table.

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.