The Executive & The Opposition Party
Roles & Powers of the PM, Cabinet and Ministry
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Definitions:
The PM:
The PM is the Head of the Australian Government, however, the PM not explicitly stated in the constitution. The PM is appointed (by G.G) by being the leader of the majority party in HoR.
The Cabinet:
A committee of executive advisors consisting of the PM & senior ministers, drawn from and accountable to Parliament. Appointed by the G.G formally under s64 of the Commons Constitution. In practice, the ministers are chosen by the PM and confirmed by the G.G.
The Ministry (Inner & Outer Ministry):
A high governmental organisation, headed by a minister, which is responsible for a certain section of public administration.
The inner ministry is comprised of important positions and responsibilities like finance, defence, and home affairs. Whereas, the outer ministry is consisted of lesser-known responsibilities like regional health and communications, albeit still important.
Roles:
The PM:
Key Spokesperson for Aus which means that the PM takes part in diplomatic & international exchanges in global community, voicing the concerns of Australians.
Head of Cabinet allows the PM to choose their cabinet ministers who, together, decide the policies of AUS. PM has final say on policy matters and Cabinet members agree to it publicly.
Leader of Government is made possible by the position as the leader of the majority party in HoR, hence they dictate policies, international relations and responsible for wrongdoings within Cabinet and Ministry.
As the Advisor to GG it allows the PM decide on on the appointment of Ministers (including non-Cabinet Ministers) and the scope of their portfolio, as well as declaring the next election date.
The Cabinet:
To manage a portfolio means that the minister is responsible for a certain department of the public service
Support cabinet decisions publicly (can privately convey their opinions during cabinet meetings)
Attend & participate in cabinet meetings just means that the ministers need to participate in order to make legislation.
The PM's Powers:
The power to decide the fate of bill. As the PM is the leader of the majority party, they can chose which bills will pass in the HoR.
The power to withdraw support from people in his party, who vote against his/her legislation - or not choosing them to be selected for the seat in the upcoming election.
The power to reward parliamentarians who they feel is loyal or has done a good job, by providing greater significant portfolios.
The power to dictate the agenda of Cabinet meetings. The ability to do this effectively means that the PM has power over what legislation is introduced and pass throughout the period of government.