The Washminster System refers to the combination of which features?

• A. The combination of Westminster system with a federal model and a U.S.-style constitution
• B. A pure Westminster system
• C. A presidential system
• D. A council-manager system

Answer: (A)

The Washminster System is about blending two traditions: a Westminster-style responsible government with a federal structure and a written constitution that mirrors the U.S. approach. That means Australia runs with a prime minister and cabinet who are answerable to Parliament, a governor-general representing the Crown, and a bicameral Parliament where the lower house forms the government and the upper house reviews legislation. At the same time, powers are split between the Commonwealth and the states, and there is a written constitution that sets out those powers and creates an independent judiciary to interpret it. This combination captures both the Westminster principles of accountable government and the federal, codified framework seen in the U.S. model.