What is required for a referendum to pass in Australia?

• A. A nationwide majority of voters only
• B. A majority of voters Yes AND a majority of states (at least 4 of 6)
• C. A majority of state governments
• D. Approval by the Prime Minister

Answer: (B)

The main idea being tested is that constitutional change in Australia must achieve a double majority. This means two things must happen at once: a nationwide majority of voters across the country must vote Yes, and a majority of the states must also vote Yes (at least four of the six states). Territories don’t count toward the state tally, so even if they vote Yes, you still need at least four states to approve it.

This is why the best choice is the one that says a national majority plus a majority of states. It shows that both broad national support and broad state-level support are required for a referendum to pass. The other options miss the essential mechanism: a nationwide majority alone isn’t enough without the state majority; it’s not about the governments of states; and the Prime Minister doesn’t grant approval for referenda.