A Dictionary Australian Politics

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adictionary

ofaustralianpolitics

r o b e r t c o r c o r a n& j a c k i e d i c k e n s o n


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A Dictionary of

Australian Politics


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A Dictionary of

Australian Politics

Robert Corcoran and

Jackie Dickenson


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First published in 2010

Robert Corcoran and Jackie Dickenson 2010

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in anyform or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recordingor by any information storage and retrieval system, without prior permission inwriting from the publisher. The Australian Copyright Act 1968 (the Act) allowsa maximum of one chapter or 10 per cent of this book, whichever is the greater,

to be photocopied by any educational institution for its educational purposesprovided that the educational institution (or body that administers it) has givena remuneration notice to Copyright Agency Limited (CAL) under the Act.

Allen & Unwin83 Alexander StreetCrows Nest NSW 2065AustraliaPhone: (61 2) 8425 0100Fax: (61 2) 9906 2218Email: [email protected]: www.allenandunwin.com

Cataloguing-in-Publication details available from the National Library of Australiawww.librariesaustralia.nla.gov.au

ISBN 978 1 74237 050 7

Set in 11/12 pt Minion by Post Pre-press Group, AustraliaPrinted by Grifn Press, Adelaide

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
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INTRODUCTION

Two thousand years ago, Pericles, a leading statesman of Ancient Greece,declared You can ignore politics, but politics will not ignore you.

This dictionary is designed to help those who want to prepare them-selves for those moments when politics intrudes into their lives. This willmost likely be during an election (a regular event in a democracy like ours)but it could also be because a particular policy or event (such as a war)demands our attention.

Although it is intended to be appropriate for any home bookshelf, theauthors have compiled the dictionary with serious students of politics inmind. But the term students of politics has a broad meaning. Some areengaged in formal studies, while others in overalls or wearing military uni-forms are also true students of politics because they realise its importanceand the need to keep abreast of public affairs. As we have seen recently, thehigh calibre of politicians is vital for a healthy democracy. But even moreimportant is that the rest of usthe citizensare engaged in the issuesand are well informed. The dictionary aims to help foster a better under-

standing of the uniquely Australian form of democratic government, andits place in Australian culture.

Our system is unique: an eminently sensible combination of the repre-sentative democracy of the lower house of the British houses of parliamentwith the elected upper house of the United States of America. And ourpolitical culture is also one of a kind: characterised by practices, processesand political language that have developed over time through the prismof the broader Australian society. As the reader will see, this has resultedin an Australian political language that is sometimes irreverent but always

colourful, economic and, as you would expect, highly expressive.Setting the scope for a book such as this presents problems for authors

and for potential users because of the extensive range of politics and itscomplexity in contemporary society. The range is, therefore, broad. Whilewe focus mainly on Australia today, we acknowledge that no nation iscompletely independent of the rest of the world. We also recognise thatreference to history can sometimes help to explain current events.

The problem of dealing with the complexity of todays political culture


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vi Introduction

has encouraged us to employ an unusual format. Each term is explainedor dened briey, which may be adequate for the readers immediate need.The term is then explained in greater depth, with cross-references to other,

relevant terms. The terms listed range from words with popular currencyto the more technical and obscure.

Controversial matters or organisations have not been avoided. The aimhas been to deal with these impartially but explicitly. It is likely that read-ers with rm views will sometimes disagree with our denitions or evencondemn our choices. Writers of robust books dealing with politics mustaccept any resulting criticism as an occupational hazard.


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AABCSee Australian Broadcasting CorporationAboriginesThe name used for many years for the Indigenous people of Australia whowere previously the sole inhabitants of the country

The Aboriginal people were cruelly mistreated by some of the early settlersand many were killed or had their land, and consequently their traditionalmeans of survival, taken from them. Despite a growing concern for theirrights and welfare, especially since the 1960s, improvements have beenslow. The term Aboriginalas a noun to replace Aborigine and also anadjective, with the initial letter capitalised in bothis recommended inthe Australian government Style Manual.[Indigenous Australians, land rights]

absentee voteA vote cast on election day outside the voters own electorate

Absentee votes are available for voters who are away from their own elec-torates on election day. To obtain absentee votes, applicants must state tothe poll clerk that they will not be in their own electorates during votinghours, but need not explain why.[poll clerk, postal vote, pre-poll voting]

absolute majority

More than half the total votes

This can also mean the number of votes (or the percentage) by which thevotes received by the winning candidate exceed all the other votes polled.When there are more than two candidates, the candidate who receivesmore than 50 per cent of the rst preference votes will be declared electedwithout the need for distributing preferences.[plurality, preferential voting]


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2 ACCC

ACCCSee Australian Competition and Consumer Commission

Access EconomicsA business-oriented think tank focusing on economics

Founded in 1988, Access Economics has ofces in Canberra and Mel-bourne. It is a proprietary company staffed by qualied economists, andoperates as an economic consultant to business and government. It takesan active part in public policy debates and the media often publicise itscomments.[think tank]

Accord (the Prices and Income Accord)An agreement made in 1983 between the Australian Labor Party and theAustralian Council of Trade Unions

The Accord was a new development in industrial relations aimed at coop-eration between the trade union movement and the anticipated Laborgovernment. The Accord had a major effect on industrial relations throughthe 1980s and into the 1990s. The Accord ended with the election of a Lib-eral government in 1996.

[industrial relations]

accountability of ministersThe requirement that ministers account to parliament for their decisions

This obligation is based on the principle of the supremacy of parliament,which is a basic element of the Westminster system and is part of the Aus-tralian structure of government. Parliament, in turn, is answerable to thepeople.

[ministerial code of conduct, ministerial responsibility, West-minster system]

ACOSSSee Australian Council of Social Services

act of parliamentA law created by the procedures and decisions of parliament

Acts of parliament make up statute law and, in Australia, are enacted by

federal, state and territory parliaments. Parliamentary procedures aredesigned to give opportunities for consideration of proposed legislationboth in broad and detailed terms. Amendments can be made during theparliamentary process. In a bicameral system legislation must be approvedby a majority vote in both houses.[bicameral system, statute law]


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3ACTU

ACTUSee Australian Council of Trade Unions

addendumAn addition, or proposed addition, to a motion

An addendum is similar to an amendment but is purely an addition, with-out any alteration to the original words of the motion.[motion]

adjournment (of debate)Postponement of discussion of a bill or other business

Discussion on a particular matter in parliament is seldom continuedthrough to its conclusion without interruption. Any of several circum-stances may make an adjournment necessary, such as insufcient time, theneed to deal with other business, or to give MPs time to study the details ofa bill. Standing orders require that debate on a bill must be adjourned afterthe ministers second reading speech.[rst reading, second reading, standing orders]

adjournment (of the house)

A temporary suspension of parliamentary proceedings

This occurs whenever a house of parliament temporarily ceases operationas, for example, at the end of a sitting day. The term also applies to thoseperiods (usually of two weeks) within a sitting period when there are nositting days.[sitting day, sittings (of parliament)]

adjournment debate

A special debate at the end of each sitting day of a house of parliamentAn adjournment debate provides backbenchers with an opportunity tospeak on topics of their own choosing. It is similar to a grievance debate inmany ways, including a tight restriction on the length of speeches.[grievance debate, sitting day]

Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT)An ofcial body that deals with complaints against actions of federal gov-ernment departments

The decisions of the tribunal can be legally enforced but can be challengedby an appeal to the Federal Court. The tribunal has the power to deal witha wide range of matters affecting organisations and the general public,such as taxation and social services. There are similar state governmenttribunals.


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4 adult franchise (or suffrage)

adult franchise (or suffrage)The legal right of all adult citizens to vote

The term is often used to indicate that women as well as men are entitledto vote. The word suffrage refers particularly to the right to vote and is thebasis of the name adopted by the suffragettes, early campaigners for votesfor women.[franchise, property vote, suffragettes]

adversarial politicsA political system in which confrontation and argument is accepted as thenorm

Politics is mostly of this type in the three tiers of Australian government,although this is sometimes denied, especially at the local government level.It arises partly from custom and partly from the party system.

afrmative actionPolicy and practice to provide greater opportunities for women

Campaigns and legislation have sought to reduce the injustice of discrimi-nation against women. The term afrmative action applies particularly to

opportunities in employment.[equal opportunity, womens lib(eration)]

afuenzaTerm given to the dissatisfaction with life felt by many people despite theirrelative afuence

The term, implying a disease, emerged in a US television documentary in2002 and was soon taken up in Australia.[quality of life]

allianceAn agreement between two or more nations to improve the effectivenessof their military defences

Alliances usually include agreement to come to the aid of an ally who isattacked. They often entail cooperation between the defence forces of eachnation in defence planning and in training exercises. The ANZUS Treaty isan example of an alliance in which Australia is a partner.

[ANZUS Treaty]

AMASee Australian Medical Association

ambassadorA diplomat of senior rank, usually in charge of an embassy


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5amendment

The customs of diplomacy include rules relating to rank and titles, com-parable to military conventions. An ambassador is usually a nations mostsenior diplomat in a foreign country. A high commissioner has the same

rank as an ambassador.[diplomacy, embassy, high commissioner]

amendmentIn politics, a change to a bill, an act of parliament, or the Constitution

Amendments to existing acts of parliament may be printed separately andin studying an act it may be necessary to check whether any amendmentshave been made since the printing of the copy being used.

[act of parliament, bill]

American allianceAn imprecise term for the relationship between Australia and the UnitedStates since World War II

The term can be given various interpretations but the military relationshipis a major component.[ANZUS Treaty]

Amnesty International AustraliaPart of the worldwide organisation Amnesty International, with branchesin all Australian states

Amnesty International has a consultative status with the United Nationsand promotes human rights, including the right to life, to freedom ofspeech, to food, to water, to decent working conditions, to housing andeducation. It supports acceptance and observance of the Universal Dec-laration of Human Rights.

[United Nations, Universal Declaration of Human Rights]

anarchyThe usual meaning is chaos resulting from the absence of effectivegovernment

A less common meaning of anarchy is the belief that there should be mini-mal formal government.

another place

A term sometimes used in parliamentary debate when referring to theother house

This peculiar tradition has been inherited from the British parliament,where the practice arose from the hostility between the House of Com-mons and the House of Lords.


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6 anti-communism

anti-communismThe belief that communism is undesirable or evil

The Cold War, mainly between the USA and the Soviet Union, was impor-tant in international politics from the 1940s until the 1980s. In Australianpolitics, the conservative parties and the Democratic Labor Party usedalleged ALP support of communism as a campaign tactic.[Democratic Labor Party]

anti-political political thoughtCriticism of elected political institutions to gain political advantage

The term applies to political tactics in Australia during the 1930s depres-

sion, when some conservative politicians sought to benet from right-wing,extremist criticism of democracy by arguing for authoritarian governmentrather than party politics.

antisemitismIntolerance or persecution of Jews

The term is derived from the word Semite, which is sometimes used asa synonym for Jew, although this is not its only meaning. Oppression or

discrimination against Jews has occurred in various countries over manycenturies, and a tragic example was the persecution and slaughter of mil-lions of Jews during World War II.

Anzac DayA public holiday to honour Australians who served in the armed forces inthe wars in which Australiahas been involved

The term is an acronym for Australian and New Zealand Army Corpsand the date, 25 April, was chosen to commemorate the landing of Allied

forces, including Australian and New Zealand troops, on Gallipoli in 1915,during World War I.

ANZUS TreatyA treaty between Australia, New Zealand and the USA to aid one anotheragainst aggression in the Pacic region

The full name is the Australia, New Zealand, United States Security Treaty.Devised in 1951 when memories of World War II and the war in the Pacic

were still vivid, it is seen as a guarantee of protection by the USA.[American alliance]

apathyIn the political sense, a lack of interest in public affairs

World history has shown that apathy of citizens can contribute to seriouspolitical problems, even the demise of democratic systems of government.Although it has become fashionable to scorn or ignore politics, continued


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7APEC

interest and some participation in politics is essential for effective demo-cratic government.[civil rights and responsibilities]

APECSee Asia-Pacic Economic Cooperation

appropriationAuthorisation by parliament for government expenditure

Public money cannot be spent unless approved by parliament, althoughthe purposes are not necessarily specied in great detail in the appropri-

ation bill.[Appropriation Bills]

appropriation billsProposals submitted to parliament to authorise government expenditure

Together with taxation bills they are sometimes called money bills andthe Constitution requires that they be introduced in the House of Rep-resentatives. The Constitution also prohibits the Senate from amendingmoney bills although the Senate may request the House of Representa-

tives to make amendments to them. The Senate has the power to rejectappropriation bills but traditionally does not do so. It was exceptional andcontroversial when the Senate did so in 1975.[money bills]

arbitrationFor many years a major component of the Australian system of deter-mining wage rates and conditions of employment

Ofcial arbitration began with the establishment of the Arbitration Courtin 1904. The Arbitration Commission succeeded the court in 1956, andthe Industrial Relations Commission took over in 1989. Arbitration judge-ments could be legally enforced, although not directly by the commission.The system was radically changed in 2006 by the Howard governmentsWork Choices legislation.[enterprise bargaining, Industrial Relations Commission, WorkChoices]

aristocracyIn Ancient Greece this meant rule by the best but it has come to mean anhereditary upper class

In countries where the continued existence of such a class is still recog-nised, membership of the aristocracy is determined by birth and aristocratsfrequently have titles such as duke or lord. Aristocrats are not necessarilyrich or powerful but are regarded deferentially by many, but not all, of theother citizens.


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8 arms of government

arms of governmentThe legislature, the executive and the judiciary make up the three arms ofgovernment

The legislature is a term used for the parliament, especially in its capacityas the maker of laws. The executive is the administrative arm of govern-ment and includes the ministers and their departments. The judiciary isthe court structure which, under the Westminster system, is substantiallyindependent of parliament.[executive, judiciary, legislature, Westminster system]

ASEAN

See Association of South-East Asian Nations

Asia-Pacic Economic Cooperation (APEC)A forum for nations in the Asia-Pacic region, with the aim of enhancingtrade and economic prospects

APEC comprises 21 member nations, including Australia and New Zealand.Powerful member nations include the USA, China, Russia, Canada, Mex-ico and Chile. APEC activities include meetings of heads of governmentsand senior ministers to consider economic matters such as increased trade,

tariffs, technical standards, administrative difculties and investment.[Association of South-East Asian Nations]

ASIOSee Australian Security Intelligence Organisation

ASISSee Australian Secret Intelligence Service

aspirationalsA term for those hoping to improve their living standards and socialstanding

This is a neologism used by both sides of politics to appeal to the lowermiddle classes. It is linked to Howards battlers and Mark Lathams phraseClimbing the ladder of opportunity, both used in the federal electioncampaign of 2004.[battler]

assimilationThe idea that Indigenous Australians and migrants should abandon theirown social and cultural practices, and adopt the norms of the majority

Widely accepted through much of the twentieth century, assimilationpolicies were responsible for the taking of Indigenous children from theirparents. Multiculturalism has largely replaced earlier attitudes towards


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9Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN)

migrants, but opinions about fair treatment of Indigenous Australiansremain mixed and controversial.[multiculturalism, stolen generations]

Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN)An organisation with the aim of promoting economic and social develop-ment and political stability in the region

Founded in 1967 with ve members, by 2008 the number had grown toten: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myan-mar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Australia is nota member but is one of several dialogue partners entitled to be directlyinformed about ASEAN meetings.

[Asia-Pacic Economic Cooperation]

asylum seekerA person who has arrived in a foreign country asking to be recognised asa refugee

The term is used to describe someone who is seeking protection from per-secution under the 1951 UN Convention Relating to the Status of Refugeesbut whose application for refugee status has not yet been approved. Theplight of asylum seekers in Australia has been much debated, especially

during the years of the Howard government because of its policy of man-datory detention for those seeking asylum.[boat people]

attack dogA parliamentarian who is given the job of vigorously taking on membersof a rival party

Reproduced courtesy of Peter Nicholson of theAustralianwww.nicholsoncartoons.com.au
http://www.nicholsoncartoons.com.au/http://www.nicholsoncartoons.com.au/


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10 attorney-general

Western Australian MP Wilson Iron Bar Tuckey was, for many years, theCoalitions principal attack dog. Others have taken up the role for specicprojects such as former Senator Santo Santoro, who attacked the ABC,

alleging it supported the Labor Party.

attorney-generalThe minister with responsibility for legal matters

The attorney-general advises all the other ministers on legal matters, andhas the responsibility for laws relating to the legal profession and theadministration of justice.

auditor-generalA federal or state ofcer with the responsibility of auditing the accounts ofdepartments and other ofcial bodies

The auditor-general reports to parliament rather than to a minister and,consequently, is in an independent position to criticise or make sugges-tions about the nancial performance of the government bodies.[public accounts committee]

Australasia

Australia, New Zealand and certain islands of the South Pacic Ocean

Australasia has been widely accepted as meaning, simply, Australia andNew Zealand. Many New Zealanders dislike the term as it seems to belittletheir independent country. The term is being replaced by Australia andNew Zealand.

Australia Act(s) 1986Acts of parliament passed in Australia and in the United Kingdom to end

the power of the British Parliament to legislate for AustraliaIn both countries the name of the legislation is the Australia Act. Until thepassing of these Acts, British legislation could still affect Australian statesand, in theory, the United Kingdom government could still recommendthe appointment of state governors. Since 1986 the state premiers canofcially make the recommendations, and state legislation is independentof that of the United Kingdom.[state(s), Statute of Westminster]

Australia Council for the ArtsA semi-government body with the aim and responsibility of encouragingthe arts

Usually referred to as the Australia Council, it was established as a statu-tory authority in 1975 and has greater powers than its predecessor, theAustralian Arts Council, which had only an advisory role. The Australia


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11Australia Day

Council distributes substantial funds provided by the government to assistcultural activities, such as opera, drama, music and writing.

Australia DayA public holiday held on 26 January each year to commemorate the arrivalof the First Fleet in Australia

Captain Arthur Phillip, commander of the First Fleet of convict ships fromGreat Britain, arrived at Sydney Cove on this day in 1788. Some IndigenousAustralians commemorate the day as Invasion Day, and there is sporadicdebate about moving Australia Day to celebrate a less divisive event.

Australia First movementA short-lived 1940s political movement, with a mixture of beliefs,including some sympathy for the fascist nations

Australia First was anti-communist, anti-British, pro-Australian, anti-Semitic, and friendly towards Germany, Italy and Japan. Its leading membersincluded the writer Percy Inky Stephensen, who edited the newsletter ThePublicist, and Adela Pankhurst Walsh (daughter of the famous suffragette).She had discarded her early leftist views and turned to the extreme right.Compromised by links with Japan, Australia First was suppressed in 1942,

with some members, including Stephensen, being interned.

Australia InstituteA think tank that emphasises the importance of ethics in private and pub-lic decision-making

An independent political research organisation founded in 1994 and basedin Canberra. It advocates a government framework in which private mar-kets will operate ethically and effectively. It is funded by philanthropic

trusts, memberships and commissioned research.[ethics, think tank]

Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)A semi-government body that provides radio and television servicesthroughout Australia

Established as a commission in 1932, the ABC was restructured as a cor-poration in 1983. It is a statutory authority that is largely independentbut depends on the government for most of its funds. It has also provided

an overseas broadcasting service. Despite criticism of bias from somequarters, the ABC is widely valued as an independent source of news andcomment, and an alternative to the privately owned and controlled com-mercial broadcasting services.[mass media, statutory authority]


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12 Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS)

Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS)An agency set up by the Commonwealth government to compile statisticson matters of public interest

The ABS deals with demographic, social and economic statistics and pro-vides information that is valuable for many activities, including planningby government and non-government bodies and individuals. Informationis available to anyone interested, although a fee may be charged.

Australian Capital Territory electoral systemA multi-member electorate, proportional representation and preferentialvoting system

Adopted in 1992, the Hare-Clark system replaced the modied dHondtsystem, which had been used in both the 1989 and 1992 elections, but wasfound to be difcult to administer and was unpopular. In accordance withnew legislation, the ACT was divided into three electorates, two of themwith ve members and one with seven.[Australian Capital Territory parliament, dHondt voting sys-tem, Hare-Clark system, multi-member electorate]

Australian Capital Territory parliament

A unicameral (single-house) parliament whose powers are dened by aCommonwealth act of parliament

A 1988 Commonwealth act of parliament gave the ACT a degree ofself-government but with less power than a state. There is no governoror administrator and the head of the government has the title of chiefminister.[Australian Capital Territory electoral system, territories]

Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI)The peak body representing Australian business and employers

Based in Canberra, the ACCI takes a leading role in representing businessinterests. It was formed in 1992 with the merging of the Confederation ofAustralian Industry and the Associated Chambers of Commerce.

Australian Christian Lobby (ACL)A political lobby group that promotes conservative Christian attitudes

The ACL vigorously opposes same-sex marriage and also expresses opin-ions on matters that do not have direct connection with religious doctrine.Critics of the ACL emphasise that its manager, Jim Wallace, and a smallboard dominate the organisation, while ordinary members appear to havelittle power within the group.


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13Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA)

Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA)ACMA is a government agency with the power to regulate broadcasting,the Internet and telecommunications

The main responsibility of ACMA is to ensure that the communicationindustry operates in the best interests of the community, includingrespect for accepted community standards. It promotes self-regulationbut has legal power to enforce its decisions on matters such as advertisingstandards.[mass media]

Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC)

A statutory authority with the responsibilities of protecting consumersand ensuring fair competition

The ACCC took over from the Prices Surveillance Authority and the TradePractices Commission in 1996. The commission considers proposedmergers and dangers of collusion between traders and is responsible forcompliance with certain sections of the Trade Practices Act and the PricesSurveillance Act. It takes a special interest in industries in which there arevery few competitors.[Choice, oligopoly, price control]

Australian Conciliation and Arbitration CommissionThe major industrial arbitration authority that operated from 1956 to1988

This commission followed the Commonwealth Arbitration Court in 1956and, in 1988, was superseded by the Australian Industrial Relations Com-mission. In 2006 the Australian Fair Pay Commission took over most of theIndustrial Relations Commissions powers under Work Choices legislation.

[Australian Fair Pay Commission, Australian Industrial Rela-tions Commission, industrial relations]

Australian Conservation FoundationAn important umbrella organisation promoting conservation

This is a voluntary group established in the early 1960s. The foundationhas acted as a lobby group on many different conservation and environ-mental matters and emphasises the dangers of climate change.[climate change, conservation]

Australian Consumers AssociationSee Choice (the new name of the organisation)

Australian Council of Social Services (ACOSS)A non-government Australia-wide body concerned with social welfare


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14 Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU)

ACOSS conducts research into social welfare matters and its representativesare frequently quoted in the mass media. It is an umbrella organisationwhose members are associations involved in particular aspects of social

welfare.[social services]

Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU)The leading Australian trade union organisation, usually referred to as theACTU

Founded in 1927, it is a peak organisation whose members are individualtrade unions. The ACTU has considerable industrial and political inu-

ence, and has taken a leading role in major industrial disputes and casesbefore the Industrial Relations Commission.[Australian Industrial Relations Commission, industrialrelations, trade union]

Australian DemocratsA minor political party that split off from the Liberal Party

Established in 1977 by Don Chipp, an ex-Liberal minister, its earlymembers included remnants of the Australia Party and of the Liberal

Movement. By the mid-1990s it was a restraint on some of the more con-servative proposals of the Howard government through its power in theSenate. It gradually declined in popularity and won no Senate seats in the2007 federal election.[Australia Party, balance of power, Liberal Movement]

Australian Electoral CommissionThe commission is the senior body in charge of organising federal elections

Established by an act of parliament in 1984, it has greater independencethan its predecessor, the Australian Electoral Ofce, which had been underthe control of a minister. The commission has the responsibility for theredistribution of electorate boundaries, the organisation and conduct ofHouse of Representatives and Senate elections, the conduct of referen-dums and the maintenance of electoral rolls.[electoral ofce, electoral roll]

Australian Fabian Society

See Fabian Society

Australian Fair Pay Commission (AFPC)An ofcial body with power to conduct reviews and adjust rates of pay

Established in 2006, it took over some of the responsibilities of the Aus-tralian Industrial Relations Commission. The AFPC was part of sweepingchanges to industrial relations legislation made by the Howard government.[Australian Industrial Relations Commission, industrial relations]


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15Australian Industrial Relations Commission

Australian Industrial Relations CommissionAn independent tribunal with the responsibility of dealing with industrialdisputes, awards, unlawful and unfair dismissals

Established in 1989, it took over from the Conciliation and ArbitrationCommission, which had operated from 1956. Its earliest predecessor, theArbitration Court, was established in 1904. The Australian Fair Pay Com-mission took over some of its responsibilities in 2006.[arbitration, Australian Fair Pay Commission, industrialrelations]

Australian Labor Party (ALP)

A major party whose fundamental position in the political spectrumis left of centre, while its policies on topical issues can be inuenced bypragmatism

The party developed from political groups formed by trade unions inthe 1890s when unions decided that they needed political representation.Despite its trade union origins, Labor Party members come from all sec-tions of the community. Since Federation, the Australian Labor Party hasalternated with more conservative parties and coalitions as the federalgovernment and has implemented major policies, such as universal health

care. It has also been in power in state parliaments frequently, sometimesfor extended periods. Factions and internal dissension have periodicallyweakened the ALP. Three major splits, followed by long periods with-out electoral success, have occurred at intervals over its 100-plus years ofexistence.[labour movement, political spectrum]

Australian legendA term for the myth of the Australian national character, which was based

on the perceived or idealised characteristics of the men of the Australianbush

The bush legend asserted that Australians were pragmatic, sceptical,anti-intellectual and anti-authoritarian. In the late 1800s the legend waspropagated by writers such as Henry Lawson and Banjo Paterson and bythe emerging labour movement, consisting of the unions and the LaborParty. Professor Russel Ward published his famous work, The AustralianLegend, in 1958.

Australian Loan CouncilA body that regulates borrowing by federal, state and territory governments

The Loan Council consists of the treasurers of each government with thefederal treasurer as chairman. It was established in 1927 and usually meetsonce a year. Between meetings its members maintain contact and decision-making by correspondence.[Council of Australian Governments meetings]


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16 Australian Medical Association (AMA)

Australian Medical Association (AMA)The AMA is the largest and best known organisation representing mem-bers of the medical profession

The stated aims of the association include concern for the interests of itmembers and high standards in all aspects of medicine. It is sometimespolitically conservative and it opposed Medibank in the 1970s and Medi-care in the 1980s. Following the establishment of other, smaller associationsrepresenting members of the medical profession since the 1960s the AMAsinuence has declined, but it remains the most inuential.[Doctors Reform Society, Medicare, Private Doctors of Australia]

Australian Republican Movement (ARM)An organisation that advocates that Australia should become an inde-pendent republic

Formally launched in 1991, the organisation maintains that it is inappro-priate to have another countrys monarch as Australias head of state. TheARM, then headed by Malcolm Turnbull, played a leading part in the 1999referendum on the issue. Supporters of a republic believe the referendumwas defeated because the wording of the proposal narrowly dened a typeof republic that was unacceptable to many who wanted a change from the

monarchy.[Australians for a Constitutional Monarchy, head of state,republicanism]

Australian Secret Intelligence Service (ASIS)An ofcial Australian intelligence organisation that operates in overseascountries

ASIS was established secretly in the early 1950s to gather information in

foreign countries pertinent to Australias security. Similar to the BritishSecret Intelligence Service (MI6) and the American CIA, though smallin comparison, its existence was unknown to most Australians until the1970s.[intelligence]

Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO)An ofcial Australian intelligence organisation that operates withinAustralia

Established in 1949 by the Chiey Labor government as a defence againstespionage and subversion within Australia, ASIO has similar responsi-bilities to those of the British Security Service (MI5). Some Australians,especially Labor Party supporters, have regarded its activities with sus-picion, suspecting that ASIO was being used to inuence the internalpolitics of Australia.[intelligence]


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17Australian Settlement

Australian SettlementA term used by political commentators to describe the characteristicsof Australian society and politics that had developed by the time of

Federation

The term implies that the character of colonised Australia had stabilisedby that time. Elements of the so-called settlement included the White Aus-tralia policy, trade protection, arbitration over wages and conditions, thebeginnings of a welfare state and reliance on British military power fordefence. Critics argue that this interpretation is simplistic and, for exam-ple, omits mention of womens rights and fails to appreciate the place ofIndigenous Australians in modern Australia.

Australians for a Constitutional MonarchyAn organisation advocating the continuation of Australia as a consti-tutional monarchy

Founded in 1992 to resist the campaign to make Australia a republic,prominent signatories to the organisations charter included Dame LeonieKramer and the Hon. Michael Kirby. Supporters of the organisation assertthat the Constitution needs no change.[Australian Republican Movement]

Australian Socialist Party (ASP)A Marxist organisation that hosted the rst meeting of the CommunistParty of Australia in October 1920

The ASP joined the Communist International in 1919, then moved to unifythe diverse socialist and communist groups active in Australia. It publishedthe newspaper International Socialistin Australia until 1921.[Communist Party of Australia]

Australian Workplace Agreement (AWA)A written agreement between an employer and an employee that sets outthe terms and conditions of employment

Introduced as part of the Howard governments Work Choices indus-trial relations legislation in 1996, an AWA replaced any existing award orworkplace agreement that would otherwise apply to the employee. In 2008the Rudd government prohibited any new AWAs, although existing onescontinued.

[enterprise bargaining]

Australia PartyA small political party operating in the 1970s

Established by businessmen Gordon Barton in 1969, most of its mem-bers were disaffected Liberals who were regarded as social progressivesand disagreed with Liberal Party policy on the Vietnam War. Together


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18 autarky

with others, Australian Party members helped to establish the AustralianDemocrats in 1977.[Australian Democrats]

autarkySelf-sufciency within a nation

With complete autarky, all materials, products and services would be pro-vided from within the country and there would be no imports.[protection, tariffs]

authoritarianism

Government by a small group with total powerAn authoritarian government rules without restriction and demands com-plete obedience, while the people have no democratic rights.[autocracy]

autocracyGovernment by a single all-powerful ruler, such as a dictator

In an autocracy the ruler wields absolute power without the people having

any legal right to inuence government.[political theory, responsible government]

autonomySelf-rule or political independence of a country or state

The term is sometimes applied to a political entity that does not have com-plete self-government but is part of a larger group, such as a state within afederation. The states in Australia are examples.[federalism]


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Bbaby bonusA lump sum payment of $5000 to parents after the birth of each child, rstintroduced in 2007Falling birth rates in Australia prompted the Howard government to offerthe payment and it was paid irrespective of the parents nancial circum-stances. The Rudd government introduced an income test, excluding

families if the chief income earner received more than $150 000 a year, andchanged to fortnightly payments believing that, overall, this would be amore effective method of assisting families.

baby boomersThe generation born after World War IIfrom about 1946 to the mid1960s

The population in Australia increased quickly during this period. With job security taken for granted many turned to idealistic causes, such as

environmental concerns, which had political implications. Some membersof later generations blame the baby boomers for various social and politi-cal problems.[Generation X, Generation Y]

backbencherA member of parliament who is neither a minister nor a shadow minister

Backbenchers have the obvious duties of attendance and contributing to

debates in parliament. They also have to participate in committee meet-ings. In their electorates they assist local constituents and communityorganisations. In the parliament, backbenchers sit behind the so-calledfront bench seats occupied by ministers and shadow ministers.[committee system, constituent, front bench]


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20 balance of payments

balance of paymentsA statement of transactions between Australia and other countries over aspecied period of time

This calculation takes into account the values of exports and imports,investments, interest payments, borrowing and lending. There are twoparts: current account and capital account. Public statements and newsabout balance of payments usually refer to the current account data.[economy (of a nation)]

balance of powerControl of enough votes by a minority of members of parliament to deter-

mine the outcome of debates in parliamentA balance of power situation can only occur when no party (or coalition ofparties) has a majority in parliament. This is more likely in a house electedon a proportional representation basis, which gives candidates from smallparties a greater chance of being elected. Examples are the Senate and theTasmanian House of Assembly.[proportional representation, two-party system]

ballot

The process of voting at an election

The term is used in a variety of ways and is frequently used simply to meanan election.[election, poll]

ballot paperThe printed form on which electors mark their votes

The same term ballot paper is applied before and after the voter has written

on it. Ballot papers are carefully counted and checked to avoid malpracticebut, to safeguard the secrecy of the ballot, they are not numbered.[scrutiny, secret ballot]

banana republicA derisory reference to any country that fails to successfully manage itseconomic affairs

Some smaller tropical countries have been regarded, fairly or otherwise,

as being in this category, and this is the origin of the expression. It gainedprominence in Australia following the comment in 1986 of the then treas-urer, Paul Keating, that Australia could become a banana republic unlesscertain economic strategies were adopted.[economy (of a nation)]


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21barbecue stopper

barbecue stopperThe introduction into conversation of a matter of major topical interest,especially a controversial one

The term was rst used by Prime Minister John Howard in 2001 and againat an electorate dinner in 2002 when he said: And nothing is more impor-tant than the debate that goes on in the community, I call it a barbecuestopper, about the balance between work and family. Other party leaders

adopted the phrase. As opposition leader in 2007, Kevin Rudd applied it tothe problem of homeownership; and Greens leader, Bob Brown, associatedit with climate change.

basic wageThe minimum legal wage in Australia from 1907 to 1967

Introduced in the Harvester award of the Arbitration Court in 1907, thebasic wage was calculated on the basis of the minimum needs of an aver-

age family. It remained a signicant element in the setting of all wage ratesuntil 1967, when the total wage concept was adopted.[arbitration, Harvester judgement, total wage]

battlerTraditionally, a person with few social or nancial advantages who worksdoggedly, usually with little reward

Reproduced courtesy of Cathy Wilcox


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22 BCA

More recently, there has been an attempt to modify its meaning. WhenJohn Howard was prime minister he applied it to anyone aspiring to highernancial and social status, including those already comfortable. This led to

the derisive term Howards battlers.[aspirationals, dog-whistle politics]

BCASeeBusiness Council of Australia

bear pitA journalistic term for the cut and thrust of political life, especially on theoor of parliament

The term is derived from the sometimes rude and ugly behaviour dis-played in parliament. It is also a symptom of the denigration of politics byemphasis on its faults.

bellwether seatElectorates that are regarded as indicators of the overall outcome of anelection

These are seats where the major parties are closely matched. Eden-Monaro

in New South Wales is a typical example. The term is derived from the oldpractice of the leading sheep of a ock wearing a bell round its neck.[psephology]

bicameral systemA system in which there are two houses of parliament

Both houses must approve bills before they can become law, with anexception in Australian politics. Under certain circumstances (dened in

the Constitution), a joint sitting of both houses of the Federal parliamentmay resolve a deadlock. All Australian parliaments, except Queensland, theNorthern Territory and the ACT parliaments, have two houses.[deadlock (between two houses), joint sitting]

big end of townAn Australian term for big business when corporations present a uniedopinion

The phrase does not refer to a locality, although it conjures up impres-

sions of large ofces on the top oors of city buildings. The term is usefulin reports and discussions, and indirectly acknowledges the inuence ofcorporate leaders.[Business Council of Australia, Main Street, Wall Street]

billA proposed act of parliament


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23Bill of Rights

Most bills are introduced into parliament by the government, althoughthere are opportunities for private members to introduce bills. They maybe introduced in either house excepting money bills, which the Sen-

ate cannot originate. In a bicameral system, both houses must approvebills. Technical experts usually write government bills, but the ideas comefrom the government, or have its support. The procedure for dealing withbills has several stages, important ones being the second reading and theconsideration in detail stage, which give opportunities for debate andamendment.[amendment, consideration in detail stage (of a bill), privatemembers bills, second reading]

Bill of RightsA document guaranteeing basic human rights, usually part of a nationsconstitution

These rights, sometimes called civil liberties, include freedoms of speech,assembly, religion, and several more. The Australian Constitution does notinclude a Bill of Rights, and whether or not one is needed is a matter ofdebate.[civil liberties, Universal Declaration of Human Rights]

black armband view of historyA term used in the debate over the history of Australian colonisation anddevelopment

Coined by eminent historian Geoffrey Blainey, the term has been used bythe conservative side in the History Wars or Culture Wars to counter theview that colonisation had tragic consequences for Indigenous Australians,and that this should be acknowledged to assist reconciliation.[assimilation, Culture Wars, History Wars, stolen generations]

black banConcerted action, sometimes by several trade unions, to obstruct a par-ticular project or a companys operation

The aim of a black ban may be to apply pressure on a company that isregarded as unfair to its workers, or to prevent the commencement of aproject that is seen as undesirable for conservation or other reasons. Forsuch a ban to be effective the trade union or group directly concerned usu-

ally needs to convince other trade unions to participate.[industrial dispute]

bleeding heart liberalDerisive term which the more hard-hearted apply to those they consider tobe too sympathetic to people in trouble or suffering disadvantage


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24 blind trust (investments for an MP)

In this context liberal has the traditional meaning of social concern,rather than the Australian meaning of politically conservative. The term isderived from the phrase my heart bleeds for them.

[liberalism, small-l Liberals]

blind trust (investments for an MP)A trust that makes investments on behalf of a member of parliament with-out the MP knowing the nature of the investments

This procedure is adopted as a guard against possible conicts of interestthat might inuence the voting by members of parliament if they knew thedetails of their investments.

blind trust (political party funding)An organisation associated with political parties, set up to disguise theoriginal source of donations

Large donations to political parties have been recognised as potentiallydangerous, and legislation requires that they be made public. Blind trustscircumvent the spirit of the legislation by acting as intermediaries betweenthe undisclosed donors and the political party. Critics describe suchmanoeuvres as laundering the money.

[public funding (election campaigns), slush fund]

blue-collar unionAn unofcial term indicating that most of the members of a union aremanual workers

This term has come into prominence since the extension of unionism tomany non-manual and professional occupations, whose unions are some-times called white-collar unions.

[trade union, white-collar union]

blue-ribbon seatA parliamentary seat that is very safe for a particular party

The term is usually applied to safe Liberal electorates because of the asso-ciation of the colour blue with the conservative side of politics.[political spectrum, safe seat]

blue-rinse set

A mildly derogatory term for elderly middle-class women, especially thosewho meet socially with others of similar characteristics

The expression comes from the practice of tinting their greying hair. Thisis one of the sections of the community seen by some political tacticians ashaving inuence and, therefore, their reactions must be considered whenplanning policies and election campaigns.[chardonnay socialist, doctors wives]


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25boat people

boat peoplePeople who leave their countries and travel in small boats to seek refugeelsewhere

Small numbers of boat people from South-East Asia came directly toAustralia in the 1970s and 1980s. Others sailed to other countries asboat people and came to Australia later as legal immigrants. Those whocome without permission are allowed to remain as permanent residentsif ofcially accepted as refugees. Australia has been criticised for holdingboat people in custody for a long time before a decision about their fateis nalised.[asylum seeker, detention centres, Pacic Solution, refugee]

branch stackingOrganised enrolment in a political party branch of new members whowould not otherwise have joined

Branch stacking occurs in all parties and is usually done to increase a fac-tions strength at party conferences, to improve the chances of a particularcandidate for preselection or to alter the degree of support for a particularpolicy. Branch stacking is sometimes organised by groups that have littleinterest in the party other than to promote a particular policy.

[faction, preselection]

budgetA statement of estimated government income and expenditure for thenext nancial year

Budgets give an indication of a governments economic policy, especiallyon revenue and expenditure. The treasurers in federal and state parlia-ments present budgets, usually once a year, although mini-budgets are

sometimes announced at other times of the year if it becomes necessary tosubstantially amend the original budget. Budgets are part of the system ofcontrol over expenditure by government departments as each must keepwithin its allocation of funds.[estimates, treasurer]

budget debateThe parliamentary debate that follows the treasurers presentation of thebudget

This is an important debate in which many MPs take part. The budget andassociated documents deal with all departments and do so in some detail.The matters that can be legitimately discussed extend over a wide area andthe debate may continue through several weeks.

bureaucracyThe administrative structure of any large organisation, but especially ofgovernment authorities


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26 Business Council of Australia (BCA)

The term is often applied in a derogatory sense, implying over-regulation,red tape and delay. Bureaucracy can also mean the form of governmentthat operates when the nominal government is weak or indecisive and, in

practice, ofcials govern the country.[delegated legislation, red tape]

Business Council of Australia (BCA)An important organisation founded in 1983 to represent business interests

The chief executives of 100 of the largest companies in Australia are itsmembers. It is an active lobbying group and makes submissions to theIndustrial Relations Commission. Statements by its representatives are

given wide publicity in the media.[big end of town, industrial relations]

by-electionAn election held between general elections, for a single parliamentary seat

A by-election is held to ll a vacancy resulting from the death or resig-nation of a member of parliament between general elections, but not if ageneral election is imminent. A Senate vacancy is lled without an elec-tion but in accordance with a procedure, specied in Section 15 of the

Constitution, which requires the new senator to be of the same party asthe previous senator. If the government has a comfortable majority inparliament the outcome of a by-election is not likely to have any majorconsequences, although by-elections do attract attention as tests of thegovernments popularity.[casual vacancy]


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CcabinetA group of senior ministers or, in some governments, all the ministers asa bodyCabinet makes decisions for government action and its timing, usually onthe recommendation of the minister responsible for the matter under con-sideration but also having regard for the attitude of the party caucus. In

some cases a small informal inner cabinet may be formed. The proceed-ings of cabinet meetings are condential and once a decision is made it isusual for all ministers to support it.[junior minister, kitchen cabinet]

campaignOrganised activity of political parties and candidates to obtain votes in anelection

The term usually refers to the time between the announcement of the elec-

tion and election day. Campaigns include party leaders policy speeches,attempts to gain media coverage and advertising. Marginal electoratesreceive special attention, such as visits by party leaders. An election cam-paign also includes local activities, including the distribution of leaets tomailboxes and house-to-house canvassing, known as doorknocking. Pub-lic meetings in local halls, once an important and colourful part of electioncampaigns, have become rare. Part of the cost of election campaigns canbe recouped from government funds, in proportion to the percentage ofvotes received.

[blind trust (political party funding), doorknocking, publicfunding (election campaigns)]

Canberra Press GalleryThe journalists and support staff who report the workings of the Federalparliament


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28 candidate

The name comes from the areas overlooking chambers of the Senate andthe House of Representatives that are reserved for reporters. The term isalso used for the professional association that represents the journalists

who report news from the parliament.

candidateA person who nominates for election, especially for a seat in parliament

Most parliamentary candidates contest elections on behalf of a politicalparty. The rst step for the prospective candidate is to win selection by thepolitical party and become its ofcial candidate, and this is usually difcultif the party has a good chance of winning the particular seat. Candidates

who stand without party support are known as independents and few aresuccessful.[independent member of parliament, preselection]

capital gains taxA tax levied on the increase in the value of assets

Introduced in Australia in 1985, capital gains tax is paid when selling anasset and is based on the increased value since its purchase. Conditionalallowance for ination and other complex rules are involved. The taxpay-

ers home is excluded from the tax.

capitalismA political, economic and social system based on a high degree of privateownership

In theory, pure capitalism may be regarded as a system in which the meansof production, distribution and exchange are completely under privateownership and control. In practice, even in countries that are recognised as

thoroughly capitalist, there is a mixture of government and private owner-ship and some government regulation. Supporters of capitalism contendthat it maximises production, and provides goods and services at mini-mum prices. Critics maintain that it has little concern for the welfare ofworkers and can lead to damaging booms and busts. The term capitalismhas been largely replaced by private enterprise and the market system.[market system, political theory]

capital punishment

Legally sanctioned execution of persons convicted of capital offencesAlso called the death penalty, capital punishment was a widely appliedpenalty for some crimes, especially murder, until the twentieth century.It is still practised in many countries, including parts of the USA, China,Indonesia and Singapore, but was abolished federally in Australia in 1973.The last state to abolish the death penalty was New South Wales. This wasin 1955, although no execution had taken place there since 1940.


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29carbon trading

carbon tradingAlso known as emissions trading, it is a program to reduce atmosphericpollution in accordance with Kyoto Protocol principles

A carbon trading scheme aims to give some exibility to industry whilereducing carbon emissions by offering economic incentives. A regulatorybody decides the appropriate amount of a pollutant that a company mayemit and issues an equivalent number of credits. If the company wishes toemit more, it is permitted to do so if it can buy credits from other compa-nies that have them to spare.[Kyoto Protocol]

caretaker governmentA temporary government commissioned by the governor-general or astate governor, usually for a short period, until a stable government canbe formed

Caretaker governments are established during a time of uncertainty whenit is not clear whether any party or coalition of parties is capable of forminga stable government. Caretaker governments carry on the routine businessof government, but they are expected to refrain from making importantpolicy decisions.

[deadlock (lack of a majority)]

casting voteThe vote of a presiding ofcer when the voting would otherwise be tied

The rules relating to casting votes vary. For example, the Speaker of theHouse of Representatives does not normally vote, but does have a castingvote. The President of the Senate is permitted to vote in divisions, but doesnot have a casting vote.

[division (voting), presiding ofcer]

casual vacancyA vacancy occurring in a parliamentary seat between general elections

A casual vacancy occurs after the death or resignation of a member of par-liament between general elections and, in lower houses, generally results ina by-election. A casual Senate vacancy is lled by a procedure, specied inSection 15 of the Constitution, which ensures that the new senator is fromthe same party as the former one.

[by-election]

Catholic Social Studies MovementSee Movement, the

caucusThe members of parliament belonging to one party as a group; also theirofcial meetings


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30 censure motion

The term applies to any political party. Meetings are held frequently dur-ing parliamentary sessions. They are nominally secret, but caucus activitiesand decisions are frequently leaked to the media. Caucuses have had, up

until recently, a big inuence on the choice of ministers and shadow min-isters, especially in the ALP.[leaks]

censure motionA formal attempt in parliament to register disapproval of the government,a minister or a member of parliament

Censure motions are mostly used as a debating tactic over alleged improper

behaviour or mistakes by the government. They can also be aimed at indi-vidual members of parliament. Voting is almost always on party lines. If acensure motion against the government is carried in the lower house, thegovernment is expected to resign. Under these circumstances a censuremotion is similar to a no-condence motion.[no-condence motion]

censusA statistical survey of the people in a nation

In Australia a census is usually held every ve years and gathers data onthe numbers and ages of the population together with other information.The Australian Bureau of Statistics is responsible for conducting each cen-sus and making the information available to the public, but a fee may becharged in some instances. The results are presented in a form that doesnot disclose information about individual persons.[Australian Bureau of Statistics]

centralism

The belief that more of the powers exercised by the states should be trans-ferred to the Commonwealth

Abolition of the states would result in complete centralism in Aus-tralia. While retaining separate states and territories, some continuingproblems might be eased by transferring carefully selected powers andresponsibilities to the Commonwealth, for example, education andhealth.[states rights, unitary system]

Centre for Independent Studies (CIS)A well-known and well-resourced think tank located in Sydney promotinga free society and the market system with minimal government regulationor participation in economic activity

Founded in 1976 by Greg Lindsay, the CIS had modest beginnings but hasgrown to possess sufcient support and nancial resources to employ a


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31Centre Left (faction)

large staff. It is self-styled as the leading independent public policy thinktank within Australasia and has an offshoot in New Zealand.[market system, think tank]

Centre Left (faction)A minor faction within the Australian Labor Party

Formed in 1984, the Centre Left concentrated mainly on policy anddecision-making and was inuential in the Hawke and Keating govern-ments. Its signicance has gradually declined.[factionsAustralian Labor Party]

Centre Unity (faction)A strong faction within the Australian Labor Party in New South Wales,with considerable inuence in federal politics

It is also referred to as the New South Wales Right. Although widelyregarded as belonging to the right wing of the ALP, its members main-tain that Centre Unity members differ widely in their opinions on politicalpolicy. In the Federal parliament its members usually join forces with like-minded MPs from other states, such as the Labor Unity faction membersfrom Victoria.

[factionsAustralian Labor Party]

chamberA hall in a parliament house in which members of parliament ofciallymeet and engage in debate

In a bicameral parliament the upper house and the lower house have sep-arate chambers.[bicameral system]

chardonnay socialistA sarcastic label for a person who expresses left-wing views while enjoyinga comfortable lifestyle

This is a derogatory term, similar to calling Liberal supporters bloatedcapitalists. It rst appeared in the 1980s, when chardonnay became popu-lar in Australia. A similar British term is champagne socialist.[blue-rinse set, doctors wives]

chief electoral ofcerThe senior person in charge of parliamentary elections

The responsibilities of this ofcer are not conned to election day, andinclude the compilation of electoral rolls and keeping them up to date.Commonwealth electoral ofcers and state electoral ofcers cooperateclosely.[Australian Electoral Commission]


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32 chief minister

chief ministerThe head of government in each of the Australian mainland territories

The Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory each has achief minister whose position is similar to that of a state premier.[premier, territories]

CHOGMSee Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting

ChoiceA non-prot body that tests products, advises consumers, supports their

rights and publishes Choice magazineFounded in 1959, it was originally named the Australian Consumers Asso-ciation. It has achieved considerable public recognition and its research isoften published in the mass media. Its inuence has been credited as beinga factor in the establishment of government ministries devoted to con-sumer protection. The magazine Choice is published eleven times a yearand carries no advertising. It describes and compares products and ser-vices, and recommends best buys.[Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, oligopoly,

price control]

citizenshipFull political membership of a nation, with the rights and duties of a citizen

Australian citizenship may be acquired by birth or by naturalisation. Citi-zens have the right to vote and stand for election except those with dualcitizenship, who cannot stand for election. Some rights and responsibilitiesof citizens are legally dened, but Australia has no formal Bill of Rights. Con-

sequently some rights exist because of tradition and contemporary values.[Bill of Rights, civil liberties, dual citizenship]

citizenship testThe Australian citizenship test is intended to promote the successful inte-gration of migrants into the Australian community

Introduced by the Howard government in 2007, the test was designed toencourage an understanding of Australias values, history and sport. Thechoice of questions was criticised for over-emphasising popular and sport-

ing culture. The Rudd government revised the test in 2008 with greaterfocus on Australias democratic processes.[immigration, mores]

civic and community organisationsThese work for the benet of the community and usually avoid party poli-tics, although their representatives sometimes express views on politicalmatters related to their organisations


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33civic participation

These organisations include: charitable bodies such as the Brotherhoodof St Laurence, the St Vincent de Paul Society; organisations that assistpeople with special needs; sports clubs and cultural organisations such as

amateur theatrical and art groups; advisory bodies such as a CommunityAdvice Bureau; and youth organisations such as Scouts and Guides. Theyrely partly on government assistance as well as support from the generalpublic. At times they indirectly participate in politics by lobbying for gov-ernment assistance or action in their areas of concern.[lobby, voluntary association]

civic participationActive engagement in civic, political or community affairs by seeking

information and making a positive contribution

Voting is a minimal form of political involvement, but for democracy tobe effective it is also necessary for citizens to understand political eventsand to value their rights. Engagement in civic affairs includes conver-sation, letters to newspapers and politicians, and membership of politicalparties. Participation in community groups, such as school committeesor volunteer re brigades, is also part of the responsibilities of peoplewho are able to make these kinds of contributions for the wellbeing of

the community.[apathy, citizenship, civil rights and responsibilities]

civicsThe study of the rights and the responsibilities of citizens

As a subject of study civics has been interpreted in different ways,including its extension to the study of a countrys political, legal andcommunity systems, and personal matters such as health and socialbehaviour.

civil libertiesThe basic rights of people in a free society

Civil liberties, sometimes called human rights, include freedom of speech,freedom of assembly and freedom of religion. The Universal Declarationof Human Rights declares many other freedoms. In Australia there is noofcial document guaranteeing civil liberties and, in the absence of a Billof Rights, civil liberties depend upon tradition and continuing public

awareness.[Bill of Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights]

civil rights and responsibilitiesMembers of a community are entitled to a range of benets and also havethe responsibility of contributing to the wellbeing of their community

Civil rights include personal rights and freedoms, the opportunity to useestablished industry and services and, through the democratic system, the


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34 classes

right to inuence government. Responsibilities of citizens include takingan interest in the government and its services. Civic rights and also civicresponsibilities are not only those that are dened by law, such as payment

of taxes, but include many that are traditional and depend on a sense ofcommunity and fair play.[civic participation, civil liberties]

classesGroups within a community identied by various criteria such as inu-ence, wealth, social status, education or occupation

Traditional English terms, sometimes used in Australia, include upper

class, middle class and working class. Many others exist, such as rulingclass, lower class, white-collar workers and blue-collar workers. Aus-tralia is regarded as being less class-conscious than many other countries,but class-consciousness sometimes emerges, for example, in political argu-ment. In Australia, movement from one class to another is not uncommon,and social mobility is aided by the absence of major differences in accentsand an aversion to subservience.[egalitarianism, Establishment, meritocracy, squattocracy]

clauseA distinct part of a bill, usually identied by a number

Dividing a bill into clauses assists the efciency of debate in parliament.Clauses become sections after a bill becomes an act.[bill, section (of an act of parliament)]

clerk (of parliament)The most senior ofcial of the staff of a house of parliament

The clerk has an active role in parliamentary sittings and needs a goodknowledge of the rules and procedures of the house of parliament. Theresponsibilities of the clerk also include administration and the clericalwork associated with parliament.[protocol (ceremonial), standing orders]

climate changeA signicant change in the normal weather pattern

The accepted characteristics of a weather pattern in a particular areaor

worldwideare not precise and are usually based on long-term recordsand other scientic evidence. Despite some argument, scientic opinionfavours the belief that industrial activity in recent centuries has caused asignicant climate change.[global warming, greenhouse effect]


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35closure

closureThe abrupt curtailment of parliamentary debate, often called the gag

This occurs when a motion for the immediate closure of debate is carried.(The wording of such a motion is that the question be now put.) The pro-cedure was introduced to prevent excessively long debates. It can save timebut is open to the criticism that it can be used to prevent adequate discussionon contentious legislation. It should be distinguished from theguillotine.[libuster, guillotine]

coalition

A combination of political parties in parliament, while each party retainsits separate identity

In federal politics, the Liberal Party and the National Party consistently join together in coalition whether as the government or the opposition.Conservative coalitions also occur in state politics. Partners in a coa-lition must make compromises on policy and in the choice of ministers orshadow ministers.

Coalition, the

The combination of the Liberal Party and the National Party in govern-ment and in opposition is often referred to as the Coalition

Such an arrangement is reached to provide a workable non-Labor govern-ment or opposition. In a federal parliamentary coalition, the Liberal Partyis dominant and the leader is a Liberal, while the Nationals supply thedeputy leader.[Liberal Party (of Australia), National Party]

Reproduced courtesy of Simon Kneebone


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36 Cold War

Cold WarThe armed but non-violent confrontation between anti-communist West-ern nations and the Soviet Union and its satellites, such as East Germany,

Poland and the Baltic states, absorbed after World War II

The Cold War continued for about forty years, starting immediately afterWorld War II and ending with the collapse of the Soviet Union in the late1980s. A frightening feature of the Cold War was the possession of nucleararmaments by both sides and the possibility of their sudden use, with ter-rible consequences. This was called the balance of terror.[anti-communism]

collectivismThe theory and its implementation based on the assumption that thewellbeing of a group should take priority over that of its individualmembers

Supporters of collectivism argue that it provides maximum benets forsharing between all members of the group. Collectivism is often contrastedwith individualism, which advocates the opposite priorities. A third beliefis that a compromise between the two would be preferable.[individualism]

colonyA settlement in another country, governed by the country from which thesettlers came

In Australia, the areas now known as states were British colonies untilFederation, although they had gradually gained a substantial degree ofself-government during the nineteenth century.[Federation, state(s)]

commerceThe distribution, sale or exchange of goods and services, especially on alarge scale

Commerce probably began with the bartering of goods. The developmentof money and written records gradually made trading more convenientand efcient. Recent inventions such as the means of rapid communi-cation and computers provide great benets for commerce but alsoincrease the danger of manipulation and fraud.

[free trade, protection]

commissionThe responsibility and authority to carry out dened tasks

In the political sense, parliament can commission individuals or organis-ations to undertake specied duties. Examples include royal commissions,which are set up to investigate matters of public concern, and other


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37Committee for Economic Development in Australia (CEDA)

commissions with continuing duties such as the Australian ElectoralCommission.[royal commission]

Committee for Economic Development in Australia (CEDA)A long-established independent organisation promoting research fornational economic development

Founded in 1960 by Sir Douglas Copland, a leading economist, CEDA is anot-for-prot organisation without political or other partisan leanings. Itseeks to bring together a wide range of people, including representatives ofbusiness and trade unions, academics, journalists and others to share ideas

and to cooperate in fostering development.

committee systemThe use of committees composed of MPs to assist in the work of parliament

Parliamentary committees undertake a variety of work related to mat-ters of policy and legislation, and to the procedures and operation ofparliament. In addition to their prescribed tasks, committees provide anopportunity of utilising the abilities of backbenchers. There are severaldifferent types of committees, including the main committee, joint com-

mittees, select committees, single-house committees, standing committeesand statutory committees. The main committee sits separately in its ownmeeting room and its major role is to consider in detail those billsusu-ally non-controversialthat have been referred to it.[consideration in detail stage (of a bill), joint committee, maincommittee, select committee, standing committee, statutorycommittee]

common law

Law based on custom, precedent and court judgements

Common law is distinct from statute law, which is made by the parliamen-tary process. Common law gradually changes as new court judgementsfollow trends in community attitudes.[law, statute law]

Commonwealth, theAn association of nations, including Australia, most of which were once

part of the British EmpireThe Commonwealth began as the British Commonwealth of Nations butchanged to the Commonwealth of Nations and then the Commonwealth.It is a loosely organised group of about 50 nations, its membership occa-sionally changing with the admission of new members and the expulsionor resignation of others. Among its principal aims are respect for humanrights and peace among nations. It has some international inuence,although no formal power. Diplomats representing a country which is a


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38 Commonwealth Grants Commission

member of the Commonwealth in a country that is also a member areknown as commissioners or high commissioners, depending on rank.[Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, high commission]

Commonwealth Grants CommissionAn independent statutory body with the responsibility of advising theCommonwealth government on making nancial grants to the states

Created by an act of parliament in 1933, the Commonwealth Grants Com-mission assesses claims by states for grants (as permitted under Section 96of the Constitution) and makes recommendations to the Commonwealth.The aim of the grants procedure is to cope with the needs that are beyond

the nancial resources of the states, including the special needs of thesmaller ones.[Australian Loan Council, premiers conferences]

Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM)A meeting of the leaders of the countries, including Australia, which belongto the group known as the Commonwealth

The meetings are held at two-yearly intervals. They have no legal standingbut have international inuence and are also regarded as useful in main-

taining contacts and understanding between member nations.[Commonwealth, the]

Commonwealth of AustraliaThe ofcial title of the Australian nation

Adopted at the time of Federation in 1900, the term Commonwealthwas enshrined in the Constitution. In more recent years, the word Aus-tralian has replaced Commonwealth in some ofcial names, such as the

Australian Taxation Ofce. The government may be called the Federalgovernment, the Commonwealth government, or the Australian govern-ment (the same applies to parliament, which may be called the Federalparliament, etc.) The best choice may depend on the context but Com-monwealth has been favoured in ofcial documents.[Constitution of Australia, Federation]

Commonwealth Scientic and Industrial ResearchOrganisation (CSIRO)

The most signicant government research organisation in AustraliaIn its present form the CSIRO dates from 1949. Its predecessor, the Councilfor Scientic and Industrial Research, was founded in 1926 and replacedthe Institute of Science and Industry. The work of the CSIRO ranges overa wide eld but is mainly directed to the needs of industry, including pri-mary industry.[research and development]


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39communism

communismA political ideology proposing a classless society and minimal privateownership

There is much uncertainty and argument over the meaning of commu-nism. Broadly based on the writings of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels,it advocates public ownership of property and the means of production.It is regarded as the most extreme form of socialism. The political andsocial systems that operated for several decades after World War II in theSoviet Union and in China were considered to be examples of commu-nism, although it has been also argued that they were not true expressionsof communist ideology.

[ideology, Marxism]

Communist Party of Australia (CPA)The original Communist Party in Australia, established in 1920

The party grew in strength during the years of the Great Depression of the1930s but did not win parliamentary seats, although it gained considerableinuence in the trade union movement. In 1944 a Communist candidate,Fred Paterson, won the Queensland state seat of Bowen, becoming the onlycommunist to win a parliamentary seat in Australia. After the 1960s the

Communist Party declined and split into separate groups. In 1996 a groupknown as the Socialist Party of Australia renamed itself the CommunistParty of Australia but failed to gain signicant support.[communism, depression (economic), Socialist Party of Australia]

communitarianismA prominent interpretation of the term (among a number of others) isthat it deals with individual rights in relation to those of the community

Denitions of communitarianism are so disparate or vague that the term isof little help unless the meaning adopted within a discussion is made clear.But it does raise the problem of the degree to which rights and preferences ofthe individual should be modied to benet the welfare of the community.[civil rights and responsibilities, society]

communityA group of people with interests in common, usually living in the samearea

A characteristic of a community is that its members depend on oneanother. Sizes range from the inhabitants of a small village to the people ofan entire country. The term is also applied to groups of people who delib-erately live separately from the rest of the people in an area. Communitiesof monks or artists are examples.[citizenship, civics, society]


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40 comparative politics and comparative government

comparative politics and comparative governmentStudies of similarities and differences of various theories of politics andgovernment, and their practical outcomes

Comparative studies can cover examples from the whole of recordedhistory, as well as recent and current theories and practices. Study ofcomparative politics is of special value in Australia as the structure, tra-ditions and practices of Australian politics and government are largelybased on those of other countries, especially the United Kingdom andthe USA. Successes and failures of policies in those countries can be aguide for Australia.[democracy, politics]

compulsory unionismA misleading term applied to compulsory student fees charged to ensurethe delivery of student services on Australian campuses

Compulsory payment of these fees was replaced by voluntary studentunionism (VSU), which the Howard government introduced in 2005for ideological reasons. The fees cover a wide range of campus services,including health services, counselling, employment, child care and welfareservices, and it is argued that these services were greatly reduced after the

introduction of VSU.[voluntary student unionism]

compulsory votingThe legal requirement that people must vote if they are registered to do so

In Australia, compulsory voting applies to parliamentary elections and ref-erendums, and those eligible must take the steps necessary to be includedin the electoral roll. A major benet is that it encourages wide debate on

policies rather than concentration on bringing known party supportersout to vote. In Australia it was applied to federal elections in 1924 and hasbeen widely accepted and approved.[electoral roll]

conict of interestsA circumstance that occurs when a member of parliament or a ministerhas nancial or personal interests that are affected by parliamentary orministerial decisions

To reduce the problem, the rules of some parliaments require MPs todeclare publicly their nancial interests and those of their spouses andchildren. Ministers usually resign from any company directorships. Aconict of interests is regarded as applying to nancial matters and notto ideological beliefs and, consequently, a member of parliament couldproperly be inuenced by concerns regarding ethical or other ideologicalbeliefs. Another type of conict of interests (or loyalties) occurs whenthe perceived attitude of a majority of an MPs constituents differs on a


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41confrontation

particular issue from that of the party to which the member also owesloyalty.[blind trust (investments for an MP), ideology, pecuniary

interest]

confrontationAggressive, uncooperative behaviour and a traditional element in Aus-tralian politics

Confrontation is prominent in politics and is demonstrated during elec-tions, parliamentary tactics and debate. It is consistent with the divisionof parliament into government and opposition. It occurs in other elds,

including the adversarial legal system and in industrial affairs, althoughin the latter there have been intermittent and sometimes successful effortsto achieve concil

A Dictionary Australian Politics

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Transcript of A Dictionary Australian Politics