Government and the Law: Citizenship Test Practice Questions
Government and the Law is one of the four sections of Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond, the official resource every real test question comes from. It covers: How Australia is governed: the Constitution, federal, state and local government, the Senate and House of Representatives, voting, elections, courts and how laws are made.
Of the 280 questions in our practice bank, 120 are Government and the Law questions. On a typical 20-question test you can expect roughly 9 from this section. Below are 9 sample questions with answers and explanations to show you exactly what to prepare for.
Sample Government and the Law Questions and Answers
Try each question before expanding the answer. Every question below also appears in one of our free practice tests.
1. What is the primary purpose of compulsory voting in Australia?
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Explanation
Mandatory voting systems aim to guarantee that the populace actively participates in selecting their parliamentary representatives and government.
2. What is the penalty for failing to vote without a valid reason?
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Explanation
If you abstain from voting in an election without a legitimate justification, you are required to pay a financial penalty.
3. Which statement is FALSE?
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Explanation
While the government appoints judges and magistrates, it lacks the power to remove them from their positions based on disagreement with their rulings, ensuring judicial independence.
4. What is the core function of the courts within Australia's legal framework?
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Explanation
Australian courts hold the responsibility for interpreting and applying legislation. They function independently from the government, determining legal breaches and appropriate penalties.
5. The duties of a Senator encompass all the following activities EXCEPT:
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Explanation
The appointment of government ministers is a responsibility held by the Prime Minister, the leader of the government.
6. What is the total number of representatives elected to the House of Representatives?
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Explanation
The official Our Common Bond booklet states that over 150 members are elected to the House of Representatives.
7. Concerning local governments in Australia, which statement is FALSE?
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Explanation
Local councilors are elected into office by the votes of citizens residing within their specific local government area.
8. Which of the following statements comparing state and federal governments is FALSE?
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Explanation
The operational structures of state governments largely mirror that of the Australian Government, including having parliamentary systems and a Governor representing the Head of State.
9. Which house of the Australian Parliament is often called the 'States' House'?
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Explanation
The Senate is often referred to as the 'States' House' because it represents the interests of the states and territories, with each state having equal representation.
Practise Government and the Law Until It Sticks
The app has 14 dedicated category tests, so you can practise Government and the Law questions on their own. All 16 mock exams, every question in 13 languages, and weak-spot tracking, all in the app.
Study This Section First
Prefer to read before you practise? Our Government and the Law study guide breaks down everything this section of Our Common Bond actually tests.
Read the Government and the Law study guide