What is democracy?
Democracy means rule by the people. The word comes from the ancient Greek words ‘demos’ (the people) and ‘kratos’ (to rule). A democratic country has a system of government in which the people have the power to participate in decision-making.
Each democracy is unique and works in different ways. In some democracies citizens help make decisions directly by voting on laws and policy proposals (direct democracy). In others, like Australia, citizens choose representatives to make decisions on their behalf (representative democracy).
Democracy key ideas.
Parliamentary Education Office (peo.gov.au)
Democracy key ideas.
Parliamentary Education Office (peo.gov.au)
Description
This diagram illustrates the 4 key ideas of Australian democracy:
- Active and engaged citizens—Citizens have a voice and can make changes in society.
- An inclusive and equitable society—We work towards a society where everyone is respected and free.
- Free and franchised elections—We get to stand for election and choose who makes decision on our behalf.
- The rule of law for both citizens and the government—Everyone is equal before the law and must follow the law.
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