9.1.3. Parliament

The government is formed in the House of Representatives by the party able to command a majority in that chamber.

Minority parties often hold the balance of power in the Senate, which serves as a chamber of review for the decisions of the government. Senators are elected for six-year terms, and in an ordinary general election only half the senators face the voters.

In the Australian Parliament, questions can be asked without notice, and there is a strict alternation between Government and Opposition questions to ministers during the Question Time. The Opposition uses its questions to pursue the government. Government members give ministers a chance to put government policies and actions in a favourable light, or to pursue the Opposition.

Anything said in the Parliament can be reported fairly and accurately without fear of a suit for defamation. The rough-and-tumble of Parliamentary Question Time and debates is broadcast and widely reported. This has helped in establishing Australia’s reputation for robust public debate, and serves as an informal check on the executive power.