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How is the power of government controlled? · 1 min read

Judicial power

Judges have the power to interpret and apply the law. Courts and judges are independent of parliament and government.

These powers are written into the Australian Constitution.

Test yourself on this topic

2 questions on this topic, each with the answer explained.

  1. 1. Courts and judges in Australia are independent of which bodies?

    • Parliament and government
    • Other courts in Australia
    • The states and territories
    • Voters and political parties

    Explanation: Judges decide cases on their own, without being controlled by politicians or the government.

  2. 2. What power do judges have?

    • To change the Constitution when needed
    • To elect the Prime Minister of the day
    • To write new laws for Parliament
    • To interpret and apply the law

    Explanation: Judges do not make the laws; they work out what the laws mean and apply them to cases.

From Australian Citizenship: Our Common Bond, the official booklet