Thanks for your question, Haider. All democracies are different, and define the rights and responsibilities of their citizens differently. Show
You can read the PEO Democracy factsheet to learn about our democratic system of government and you can find out more about the requirements for Australian citizens at the Department of Home Affairs Australian citizenship pledge page. As a democracy relies on the participation of its citizens, one of the main responsibilities of living in one is to get involved! You can participate not just by voting, but by taking an interest in your community. You might support a charity or join a political party, environmental or other action group. Engaging responsibly in Australia’s democracy as an active citizen also means you are informed about the work of parliament and that you speak up to ensure your representatives are aware of issues that are important to you.
Democracy key ideas. Parliamentary Education Office (peo.gov.au) Democracy key ideas.Parliamentary Education Office (peo.gov.au) DescriptionThis diagram illustrates the 4 key ideas of Australian democracy:
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Syllabus LinksSyllabus Links Part II: The individual and the law
Democratic ParticipationA working democracy needs citizen involvement and open compromise. In democracies, the Government is only legitimate if they are based on the consent of the people. Democracy requires participation and responsibility within our system of governance. It is our responsibility to make our voices heard and to question the policies and decisions of the Government and keep the government accountable. Listening to different perspectives and views makes democracy stronger. We must exercise our power and civic responsibility directly and/or through freely elected representatives. Citizens are the source of all government power. Representative DemocracyWe have a representative democratic system where the people we elect make decisions on behalf of the people. This is underpinned by two key elements:
Checks and balances within the parliamentary system and the principle of the separation of powers keep the Government accountable and ensure it’s not all powerful; it may do only those things that the people have given it power to do. The rule of law requires governments to be accountable to the people and reflect society’s values to make ”good law” for the people. No person or government is above the law, and no government or official can enforce an unjust or unfair law. Key Principles of Democracy
What are the Benefits?Australia generally enjoys a peaceful and harmonious society with a successful democracy. Its many benefits include:
Rights and LibertiesRights and liberties are guarantees and freedoms enjoyed by citizens in liberal democracies. In some countries such as the USA, Canada and New Zealand they are listed in a Bill of Rights. In other nations such as Australia they are enshrined in the Australian Constitution. Did you know?The Legislation Review Committee reviews each Bill introduced into Parliament and reports on its impact on personal rights and liberties. For example, in 2010 the Parliament invited comment from the public on the principles it should apply when considering bills that trespass on personal rights and liberties (under section 8A of the Legislation Review Act 1987) in determining whether a trespass on a right is undue in relation to the public interest. You can read the report and responses to the discussion paper Legislation Review Committee; Public Interest and the Rule of Law More information on the Legislation Review Committee Making Your Voice HeardEvery citizen has the right and opportunity to play an active part in the decision-making processes of government and the Parliament. Voting for Parliament at state, federal and local elections and in referendums keeps the people at the centre of the democratic system. Through this process, citizens freely exercise their choice and give the authority to their elected members to represent them in parliament and to form governments based on the majority decision of the people. But how can we influence our elected members’ decisions and actions during their term in office? In this section you can trace a number of methods that you can engage in to improve outcomes on the issues you find of primary concern. Action Through Members of ParliamentContacting MembersYour local member, Ministers or Government departments can assist with problems, take action or refer the issue to someone who can assist. They will often pass the concern on to an appropriate minister or officer. In some cases, they will raise these concerns in the parliament. All members of Parliament are listed here. Parliamentary CommitteesCommittees investigate complex issues in society and their reports can influence government and parliament decisions. Most committees invite community submissions. Expressing views to a committee, either in writing or in person, is a direct way of having a case taken into account as new legislation, policies or decisions are being developed. PetitionsPetitions are a traditional way of mobilising change, by presenting a petition to parliament through a member. Petitions have a set format which should be followed. Recently the Legislative Assembly has introduced ePetitions which allow petitions to be signed and submitted online! LobbyingLobbying is an attempt by individuals, groups or organisations to make their views known to politicians in order to influence political decisions. It is an accepted practice within a democratic system that must operate within the law. There are many worker, employer and particular interest organisations that represent their interests to the government and the media. Some individuals or firms operate as professional lobbyists, offering their skills and knowledge to organisations which want their case put effectively. Did you know?You can stand for parliament at eighteen years of age (voting age). An option open to all citizens is to stand for parliament – either as an independent or as a party candidate. The NSW Electoral Commission will provide advice on the process of registration and standing. Accessing InformationFreedom of information laws promote and enhance the processes of democracy and representative government by increasing access to government information. Accessing information is key to making change and taking effective action. Citizens can use the Freedom of Information Act to get access to certain information held by the Commonwealth Government or the Government Information (Public Access) (GIPPA) Act at the state level in NSW. Learn more by reading this background paper Freedom of Information and Open Government. Using the MediaNewspapers, radio and television play a significant role in publicising issues or exposing problems. The media can reflect or promote public opinion and influence decisions of the government. The internet offers opportunities to influence others, generate support and action on issues. Direct ActionDirect action such as:
can be legal ways of attempting to generate and demonstrate public support for an issue and influence decision-makers. What are a citizen's responsibilities in a democracy?By voting, citizens are participating in the democratic process. Citizens vote for leaders to represent them and their ideas, and the leaders support the citizens' interests. There are two special rights only for U.S. citizens: voting in federal elections and running for federal office.
What is the responsibility of citizens in a free and democratic society?Paying one's fair share of taxes, accepting the authority of the elected government, and respecting the rights of those with differing points of view are also examples of citizen responsibility.
What are 5 examples of citizens responsibilities?Responsibilities. Support and defend the Constitution.. Stay informed of the issues affecting your community.. Participate in the democratic process.. Respect and obey federal, state, and local laws.. Respect the rights, beliefs, and opinions of others.. Participate in your local community.. What is the role of citizens in a democracy 5 points?Citizens' roles in a democracy primarily include adhering to the laws and regulations established by the government in order to properly govern the country. In a democracy, it takes both the government and the citizens' efforts to keep the peace and allow the country to grow and develop.
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