Federal Government
The Federal Parliament makes laws for all Australians. The Federal Government is located in Canberra.
There are two houses of Parliament: the House of Representatives and the Senate. All Australians vote for Members and Senators to represent them in Parliament.
The Prime Minister, who is a member of the House of Representatives, is the leader of the Federal Government.
Federal Government Responsibilities
The Constitution gives the Federal Government more powers than State and Local Governments in a range of specific areas.
If the State and Federal Government make conflicting laws, the Federal Law is recognised.
Some services for which the Federal Government is responsible for include:
- Employment
- Pensions and family support
- Defence forces
- Immigration and customs
- Passports
- Income and company taxes
- Imports and exports
- Control of television and radio
- Airports and air safety
- Posts and telecommunications
