CONSTITUTIONAL LAW

INTRODUCTION

• A constitution can be defined as a document that outlines the rules for the governing body of a nation.
• The Australian Constitution governs the Federal Parliament
• Each state also has its own constitution

IMPORTANCE

• Ensures Australia has a democracy and the rule of law.
• Define the rule of law using your text.

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

• The first constitutional document was the Magna Carta, 1215 in England under reign of King John.
• It mainly gave power to the nobility at the expense of the king, but also made reference to the rights of individuals.

CONTD...

• Status of parliament in England continued to rise.
• King Henry V conceded that parliament had the right to make laws and that legislation should be approved by the House of Commons (ie men who were not of noble birth).

AUSTRALIA'S CONSTITUTION

• Signing the Constitution meant that the states were handing over some of their power to the new federal government.
• The Senate evolved to allay the concerns of the states and give their representatives the final say on laws.
• Answer review Qs P46

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