Become AuggieStudy / Part 3: Government and the law in Australia
Federation and the Constitution
- Before 1901 there were six separate British colonies
- They federated on 1 January 1901
- The Constitution is the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act 1900
- It set up Parliament: the House of Representatives and Senate
- It also set up the High Court of Australia
- Only the people can change it, through a referendum
- A change needs a national majority and a majority of states
- The 1967 Referendum passed with over 90% 'Yes'
- 1900The Constitution is passed as part of a British Act of Parliament.
- 1901The colonies unite as the Commonwealth of Australia.
- 1967Over 90 per cent vote Yes to count Aboriginal peoples in the Census.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 1900 | Constitution passed as part of a British Act of Parliament |
| 1 January 1901 | Constitution takes effect; Commonwealth of Australia formed |
| 1967 | Referendum: over 90% vote 'Yes' to include Aboriginal peoples in the Census |
- Australian ConstitutionCommonwealth of Australia Constitution Act 1900
- Parliament of the Commonwealth
- House of Representatives
- Senate
- High Court of AustraliaFinal power to apply and interpret the law
- ReferendumThe people can change the Constitution here; needs a double majority
Key facts
- Before 1901: six separate self-governing British colonies.
- Federation: 1 January 1901, Commonwealth of Australia.
- Constitution: Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act 1900.
- The Constitution established Parliament (House of Representatives and Senate).
- The Constitution established the High Court of Australia.
- The Constitution can be changed by the people through a referendum.
- Double majority: national majority + majority in a majority of states.
- 1967 Referendum: over 90% voted 'Yes' to include Aboriginal peoples in the Census.