In practice the two levels of government cooperate in many areas. States and Territories create local government bodies. These do not have the law enforcement or public education functions vested in local bodies in other English-speaking countries. The maximum term for Australian governments is three years from the first meeting of a new federal Parliament. However, a Prime Minister can ask the Governor-General for a general election earlier than this.
Voting is compulsory in Australia.
Although the fine for failing to vote is small, more than 90 per cent of voters cast a ballot. In single-seat electorates for the House of Representatives, Australians must put a number against each candidate's name in order of preference. Preferences are also used in the statewide, multiple-seat electorates of the Senate. To help their supporters get it right, political parties hand out 'how to vote' cards at polling booths. The preferences that flow from less popular candidates often decide who wins.