Three Levels of Government
Australia has three different levels of government and they are all responsible for different areas. Watch the video below to get an idea of the differences.
Federal Government
Each of the three levels of government in Australia—federal, state or territory, and local—have their own powers, responsibilities, and services. But in some areas the responsibilities of two or three levels of government overlap, such as in education and health.
The federal government is responsible for national affairs. This includes some of the following areas: taxation and currency, defence, international relations, trade, immigration, postal services, air travel, telecommunications, and broadcasting. It also provides funding to state and local governments.
State Government
State governments are responsible for any areas not covered by the federal government’s responsibilities. This includes education, health, main roads, public transport, agriculture and fishing, community services, law and order, sport and recreation, water, electricity and gas supplies, police, and emergency services.
Local governments usually handle community needs and may be responsible for building development, public health, local roads and footpaths, recreation (such as parks, sports fields, tennis courts, and libraries), local environmental issues, garbage collection, and community services.