Why do some parties work together while other parties work by themselves?
The House of Representatives during a division
DPS AUSPIC
The House of Representatives during a division
DPS AUSPIC
Description
A formal vote called a division happening in the House of Representatives. Members are dividing into two groups. Those voting 'aye' or 'yes' are moving to sit on one side of the House and on those voting 'no' are moving to sit on the other side.
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In the Australian Parliament, political parties can choose to work together to achieve common aims or create a bigger group by working together. When parties work together it is called a coalition.
Parties in a coalition generally vote the same way, although they may have different ideas on particular bills – proposed laws. Each party has their own rules, holds separate party meetings and elects the leaders of their own party.
The Liberal Party of Australia and the Nationals formed the longest-running coalition in the Parliament. Their partnership is sometimes called 'the Coalition'.