Which chamber represents states and territories and acts as a house of review?

• A. The Senate
• B. The House of Representatives
• C. The Supreme Court
• D. The Governor-General

Answer: (A)

The Senate represents states and territories and acts as a house of review. In Australia, Parliament has two houses, and the Senate is designed to give equal representation to each state (plus representation for the territories) so that regional perspectives have a voice in federal lawmaking. Beyond simply debating legislation, the Senate reviews proposed laws through debates, committees, and inquiries, checking the government’s work and suggesting amendments before laws pass. This scrutiny helps prevent laws that don’t work well or don’t reflect broader interests.

The other chamber is based on population and is where government is formed, which is why it’s not described as the house that represents states. The Supreme Court interprets laws, and the Governor-General acts as the Crown’s representative, not as a legislative chamber.