Settlement Guide: Australia's political system

The federal election is just around the corner with the 45th Parliament of Australia set to be formed after election day on July 2. This election determines the 150 members in the House of Representatives, 76 members of the Senate, and ultimately, the countrys next leader. So how do elections determine our next government?The Australian federal system constitutionally divides powers between the Commonwealth or federal government and six states. All laws made by parliament must pass through both the House of Representatives and the Senate and then signed by the Governor General. Sydney Universitys Professor Rodney Smith says the federal government plays a key role in Australian politics.