Glossary extracted starting with automatic seeds, with BOW for the domain pol and language EN

federal courta court formed by the federal Parliament in 1977 to make judgments on certain federal matters and on appeals from state and territory courts on certain other matters.
capacityThe ability to understand and give legal consent to an action or arrangement.
lay overto postpone action on a measure until a future time.
out of ordernot in accordance with recognised parliamentary rules
estimatesthe sums of money which the government proposes it will need to provide works and services during a financial year
determinationDecision.
money billa bill setting a tax or proposing the spending of money for a particular purpose
invalidNot valid (q.v.); without legal effect.
measurebill, joint resolution, concurrent resolution or simple resolution.
fourth readingamendments from the opposite house or a conference committee report on a measure are read before a vote is taken
officera permanent career official or employee of one of the parliamentary departments which provide support services for the federal Parliament
grand councilThe traditional form of government for the Mi’kmaq Nation, uniting the seven districts of Mi’kma’ki
judicial branchThe part of the US government that settles disputes and administers justice
standing ordersa collection of rules agreed to by a house which govern the way it conducts its business
preambleWords appearing near the beginning of an Act after the long title, stating the reasons for passing the Act
parliamentA political assembly of elected representatives who debate/vote proposed laws.
notice of motionan announcement of intention to put forward a motion for consideration, nearly always for a later day
pocket vetofailure of the Governor to sign a measure within 15 days following sine die adjournment, which results in veto without gubernatorial action
constitutionThe set of basic rules by which a country or state is governed
initiateto originate a bill in either house of parliament
despatch boxestwo ornamental boxes which lie upon opposite sides of the Table of the House of Representatives and which once were a storage place for papers; ministers and shadow ministers usually speak from a position next to the despatch box on their side of the Table
sinecureAn office that produces income but requires minimal activity on behalf of the officeholder
inuitA term defining the indigenous people living in the Arctic in Canada the US and Siberia
treaty of versaillesAlso known as the Treaty of Paris
moral relativismLoosely described as a philosophical concept whereby an act universally identified as immoral in the home country is however excused when observed in another because of the culture or history of that country.
statuteAnother term for an a law.
extentSee ‘geographical extent'.
letters of administrationThe document by which a person is empowered to manage the estate of a deceased who left no valid will.
depositionsThe record of evidence given in committal proceedings (q.v.).
double jeopardyA situation in which a person may be convicted twice for the same offence.
nameto formally identify a member for disorderly behaviour during a sitting of a house, by which action a presiding officer sets in train disciplinary proceedings which may result in the suspension of the member from the house
notice paper the document issued each sitting day that lists all outstanding business before a House of Parliament.
federal governmentThe central or federal government is responsible for administration of functions enumerated in the Constitution on an Australia wide basis.
readinga formal stage in the passage of a bill through a house of Parliament; the first reading occurs when a bill is introduced, the second when it has been agreed to in principle and the third when it has been fully considered and any amendments agreed to; it is usual practice for the second reading of a bill to be moved immediately after the bill has been read a first time
legislation committeea standing committee of the Senate which inquires into bills, estimates, annual reports and performances of government agencies
parenting ordersCourt orders made under the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) pt VII and covering things such as who has parental responsibility for children, with whom children will live and spend time and with whom and how they will communicate.
fort frederickA British fort established at the mouth of the river St
office of parliamentary counselan office of legal officers who draft or prepare proposals for new laws
tortA civil (q.v.) wrong, an act which causes harm, intentionally or otherwise, for which the remedy is an action for unliquidated (q.v.) damages.
ad hoc committeeA temporary parliamentary Committee established to deal with a specific issue - for example, interviewing and recommending commissioners for the South African Human Rights Commission.
writIn electoral terms a writ is a document commanding an electoral officer to hold an election and contains dates for the close of rolls, the close of nominations, the polling day and the return of the writ
oral traditionsThe passing along of knowledge, from one generation to the next, by word of mouth
systemThe system of government which exists in the United Kingdom and which has been followed, to a greater or lesser extent, by many Commonwealth countries
grievance a matter of concern
security interestAn interest in or power over goods to secure payment of a debt or obligation.
oath of officeAn oath taken by employees of the House of Commons to carry out faithfully the duties entrusted to them.
child maintenance orderA parenting order (q.v.) setting out arrangements for the financial support of a child after marriage breakdown.
written offOf a debt: cancelled, releasing the debtor from obligation to pay.
the australian policy handbookC Althaus P Bridgman & G Davis, The Australian Policy Handbook, 4th edn, Allen & Unwin, Australia, 2007.
writA document in the monarch's name and under the seal of the Crown which commands the person to whom it is addressed to do or refrain from doing some act.
victim impact statementA statement to the court by the victim of a crime setting out details of injury, loss or damage caused by the crime.
legislative councilresponsible for ensuring that correct procedure is followed and administration and records are properly maintained.  Coalition: A combination of two or more political parties in Parliament.  Committee: A group of Members of Parliament appointed by one or both Houses to consider matters referred to it
international arbitrationThe hearing and determining of a dispute between countries, by a person or persons chosen or agreed to by the countries involved.
billThe name for proposed legislation entered into the house / houses of parliament to be debated upon for approval
parliamentThe Parliament of New South Wales consists of the Queen (i.e
debatea formal discussion in a house on a bill or other topic in which different views are put to arrive at a decision
regulationAn official rule, law, or order stating what may or may not be done or how something must be done.
point of ordera question as to whether proceedings in a meeting are in accord with the rules or in the correct form.
governor-generalThe representative of the King or Queen in Australia
public servicethe departments and people who work for them, responsible for putting into effect government policy and decis ions and legislation passed by Parliament.
retrospectiveApplying to circumstances existing before the date on which a law came into effect.
house of representatives practicethe main reference book on the law, practice and procedure of the House of Representatives
legislationThe process of making new laws.
expiredProvision(s) contained within legislation (particularly amending) where provision(s) or whole statute is provided with a date to expire, lapse or cease to have any further effect.
enacting wordsThe words ‘The Parliament of New Zealand enacts as follows'
national youth commissionThis Commission was established to assist the government in developing a comprehensive youth development policy
person responsibleThe person highest on a designated list who is available and able to make decisions on medical treatment for a patient who is unable to give informed consent (q.v.).
government gazetteThe official government paper that publishes laws (Acts) and other official documents such as Bills and White Papers.
constitutional1
redistributiona new division of an area into electorates with the result that boundaries of some existing electorates are moved.
financial yearA year as it is set for public finance, being the period from 1 July of one calendar year to 30 June of the next.
freedom of speech the right to speak as one wishes.
registryThe administrative section of a court, which handles enquiries and submission of documents to the court
legislatureA law making body (e.g
acta law made by Parliament; a bill which has passed all three readings in each house and has received the royal assent
interjection a remark made to interrupt, or respond to, a point during a speech.
bring down the budgetto place a plan before Parliament each year showing what money the government expects to receive (revenue) and how the government wants to spend it (expenditure)
division of powersthe constitutional allocation of powers and functions between a national Parliament and government and state parliaments and governments, which forms the basis of a federal system of government
public actAn Act that applies to the public at large.
debtorA person who owes a debt.
indictable offenceA serious crime which is generally triable before a judge and jury.
party-politicalhaving to do with the affairs or interests of a political party, sometimes to the benefit of a party ahead of the benefit of the public
royal proclamation of 1763A declaration made by the King George III of England, establishing the boundaries and land rights of British North America.
urgency motionA motion proposing that the House accord urgency to certain business
secondary legislationDelegated legislation, such as a Statutory Instrument, made by a person or body under authority contained in primary legislation
party committeea group of members of Parliament from the same political party who look at a particular area of government or opposition policy, and assist their party to make decisions on laws and other matters connected with that area of policy
incorporated associationA not-for-profit comm­unity organisation with a separate legal identity and a structure regulated by legislation.
pageÉtudiant d’université engagé par le Sénat ou la Chambre des communes pour transmettre des messages ou livrer des documents et d’autres choses aux sénateurs et aux députés au cours des séances du Sénat ou de la Chambre des communes.
grandfather clausesection of a measure making its provisions inapplicable to activities or personnel involved prior to a specific date.
covenantAn agreement creating an obligation contained in a deed (q.v.) or land title
governor and governors-generalThe Queen's representatives.
delegated legislationlaw made by the executive government under an Act of Parliament, which does not require parliamentary enactment; examples are regulations, orders, determinations and rules
pre-hearing conferenceAn informal conference between the parties in a court action to try to reach a settlement or clarify any matters in dispute before the full hearing.
referendumA vote conducted to seek the people's decision on a particular issue
legislatureExecutive and Judiciary have separate and distinct powers in order to limit abuses of power by government
suspensionexclusion of a student from school for a specified period as a disciplinary measure; less severe punishment than expulsion (q.v.).
effective datethe date upon which a measure actually becomes law
resolutionA motion adopted by the House in order to make a declaration of opinion or purpose
arrearsPayment that is overdue or made after the date when it fell due.
appointmentAn appointment to a non-judicial post made by the Governor in Council
whistleblowerPerson who makes a complaint about illegal or inappropriate actions of their employer.
freedom of associationThe right to belong, or not belong, to an industrial association (trade union).
petitiona document presented to a house of Parliament by a person or group of people asking for action on a matter
return to ordera document produced as a result of an order for the production of documents
church instrumentA type of secondary legislation made by the Archbishops of Canterbury and York under authority contained in Church Measures.
regional adaptationThe way in which people of a certain region have learned to know, appreciate and use that region’s natural resources (fish, game, plants, minerals etc.) for their benefit so that they may live and prosper.
counselSkilled legal officers who draft Bills for debate in Parliament.  Parliamentary Privilege: The rights, powers and immunities of Parliament and its Members necessary to uphold and protect the dignity and authority of Parliament - for example freedom of speech
native titleA form of communal title whereby land is not owned but is used by those who have rights over it
billa proposed new law or a proposed change to current law presented to the Legislature for consideration
juntaA clique, faction or cabal, often military, taking power after an overthrow of the government
portfolioUsually refers to departmental responsibility (or responsibilities if for more than one Department is involved) of a Cabinet Minister.
backbench/er1
suretyA person who binds him or herself to be answerable for another
session lawsa bound volume containing all laws enacted during one year of the Legislature.
parental responsibilityUnder s 61B of the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth), this includes all the duties, powers, responsibilities and authority which, by law, parents have in relation to their children.
unicameral legislaturea Legislature consisting of one house
business purpose declarationA statement signed by a debtor before entering a credit contract that the credit is for business, not domestic, purposes.
lobbyingAn accepted practice in the democratic process whereby individuals or groups seek to make their views known to politicians in the hope of influencing decision-making
carryover legislationlegislation held over from the first regular session of a Legislature to the second regular session (from odd-numbered years to even-numbered years).
deemedTo be treated as.
queenThe federal parliament is also known as the Parliament of Australia, the Australian Parliament, the Parliament and the Commonwealth Parliament of Australia
guaranteeTo undertake (q.v.) that a contract or a legal act will be correctly carried out, e.g
insertionDescribes a specific type of amendment where new text is inserted into existing text
presiding officersAn officer elected by a legislature to oversee the proceedings of the House and to provide guidance, direction and control
insolventUnable to pay debts in full.
beyond reasonable doubtThe standard of proof (q.v.) required in criminal cases.
deedA written document that is signed, sealed and delivered
public galleryan area in a House of Parliament set aside for the public: When our school visited Parliament we watched question time from the public gallery.
implied warrantyA term, not stated in a contract but which must be fulfilled, that services and related goods will be fit for the purpose for which they are supplied.
democracya form of government in which people hold the power, either by voting for measures directly or by voting for representatives who vote for them.
sittingsmeetings of a House of Parliament
welsh statutory instrumentA type of Statutory Instrument relating specifically to Wales made under authority contained in Acts of Parliament, in Measures of the National Assembly for Wales, or in Acts of the National Assembly for Wales.
rulingAn authoritative decision made by a presiding officer about a matter of procedure.
apportionmenta division of the state into districts from which legislators are elected based upon the distribution of the population
quorum callthe result of a member drawing the attention of the Chair to the absence of a quorum: the Chair causes the bells to be rung for a set period to enable an adequate number of members to assemble in the chamber
rights and responsibilitiesIn a democracy, everyone has rights (things you are free to do) and responsibilities (things you are expected to do), e.g
bellElectronic bells that ring to call members to the Chamber
policiesThese are the ideas and proposals that the different parties have for changing things that they don't like, or improving things they are in favour of.
witnessa person who gives evidence to a parliamentary committee
states rightsthe powers or entitlements of states in a federal system
pressure groupsThese are organisations that want to change policy
legislative daya day on which the Legislature actually meets
duty of careThe obligation of a person to exercise reasonable care in the conduct of an activity
rent seekerSomeone who attempts to make an income by manipulating the social or political or economic environment to his advantage, in the form of political lobbying, rather than actually creating goods or services himself
appropriation billa bill which, when passed by Parliament, will allow the government to spend money it has gathered from the community through taxes and charges
parliamentary committee a small group of members of Parliament, usually drawn from all parties in one or both of the Houses, which studies, reports on and makes recommendations about a particular subject: A parliamentary committee was set up to inquire into- road safety.
judiciarythe branch of government concerned with the administration of justice.
ministerThe person who is head of a governmental Ministry is given this nice fancy title to add with their name
agendaa list of legislative measures, by number and short title, arranged according to the order of business, to be considered in a committee meeting.
boondoggleA wasteful government financed infrastructure developed at a cost much greater than its value, undertaken for local or political gain.
disbursementMoney paid out on behalf of another
spinTo tell a news story in a certain way so as to turn the emphasis in a politically favorable direction.
"made" dateThe date on which a Statutory Instrument, or other item of secondary legislation, is formally brought into being
resolutiona formal expression of the will, wish or direction of one or both houses.
rulinga formal decision made by the Speaker or President, usually on a matter of procedure.
parent actIn relation to a bill, the Parent Act is the previous statutory law which the bill seeks to amend.
repealthe removal of an entire section of law from the Oklahoma Statutes by the Legislature
model billA standard form provided by the Clerk of the House to those wanting to present certain types of private bills.
unparliamentary languagewords used in a house which the Chair judges to be offensive or disorderly, and which are usually required to be withdrawn
electorate or divisionAustralia is divided into voting areas, which are known as divisions or electorates
remissionFor prisoners - a reduction in the time to be served on a sentence of imprisonment.
maliceA desire to cause harm to someone, partic­ularly in relation to an action for defamation (q.v.).
non est factumIt is not his deed
politicoOne interested or engaged in politics.
press gallery1
statutory ruleThe generic name given for all types of delegated legislation.
early voteEarly vote (in person)
clerkthe senior permanent official of a house of a Parliament who advises on procedure and records the decisions of the house, and is the administrative head of the houses support services
electionThe process of electing candidates via a public vote.
single transferable voteA proportional representation voting system where there is no "above the line" option to vote for a party, but only for individual candidates in preferred order
committeea group of appointed legislators that review, discuss and possibly amend bills to be voted on the floor of either house, usually in specific areas, e.g
prudentialOf careful business management.
crownThe Queen (or King) of New Zealand when exercising powers through Ministers; in effect, the executive or Government.
constitutional democracyA constitutional democracy is where government is by the people through a system of representation based on free elections
referencea matter that has been referred to a parliamentary committee for consideration and report; a subject being considered by a committee
autonomyA limited form of independence where, for example, a state or colony can control its own domestic affairs but has no say over its foreign affairs.
de factoIn reality, e.g
government houseThe Governor-General's official residence.
glasnostA policy that commits government to greater accountability and visibility, such as freedom of information laws
federationthe forming of a nation by the union of a number of States which give up some of their powers and responsibilities to a national Government.
positivist / naturalist lawTwo opposing branches of legal philosophy, either of which judges use to aid decision making
encumbrancesA charge (q.v.) or liability, e.g
parliamentbut in New South Wales this refers to Members of the Legislative Assembly.  Motion: A proposal put to the House, which is debated and voted upon.
parliamentThe political assembly in which elected representatives talk about and vote upon proposed laws.
itinerant electorA person who is in Australia and because the person does not reside in any subdivision, is not entitled to be enrolled for any subdivision.
governorThe Queen's representative in Queensland
laissez-faireFr
undertakeTo promise, in the course of legal proceedings, to do or refrain from doing an act
civil lawLaw which is not criminal or church law (usually the former), it may mean law based on the Roman system
landlordThe owner of a seigniory, or large grant of land.
federalismA system of government in which power is divided, usually on a geographical basis, between the central government and regional, provincial or state governments, with different levels of government having separate responsibilities in a given jurisdiction
judicial service commissionThis Commission advises government on any matter relating to the administration of justice and the judiciary, such as complaints about judges and the appointment of judges.
sitting daysDays on which one or both Houses of parliament meet.
paroleTo free a prisoner on his or her own recognisances (q.v.) after serving a minimum term.
sectiona separate numbered item in an Act of Parliament: There were 65 sections in the Act.
fiscalThe term used when describing money the government receives from taxes; dealing with tax revenue.
order of business1
specific performanceDoing exactly what is stated in the terms of a contract.
extensionWhen the operation of an item of delegated legislation is extended beyond its due expiry date.
instalment orderA court order allowing or requiring a debtor to pay a judgment debt (q.v.) by regular specified payments.
journalthe official record of legislative proceedings
federationThe unification of a number of States to form a nation
recessThe periods when the legislature is not in session.
explanatory noteText created by the government department responsible for the subject matter of the Act (or Measure) to explain what the Act sets out to achieve and to make the Act accessible to readers who are not legally qualified
censusan official count of the number of people in a region
lawa principle governing action, rule, or procedure that is enforced by a specific authority
put the questionask for a decision on a motion or stage of a bill
ombudsman an official whose job is to look into people's complaints against the Government or Public Servants.
identification paradeA police "line up" held so a witness to an offence can try to identify a suspect among other people of similar appearance.
wonkSomeone engrossed in the technicalities of some aspect of public policy.
secured creditorA creditor (q.v.) who holds a mortgage, charge (q.v.) or lien (q.v.) on the property of the debtor.
advise and consentconfirmation by the Senate of certain appointees of the Governor or other appointing authority.
bicameralhaving two chambers or houses, especially of a law-making body
voter turnoutThe number of people who actually vote on the day of the election
co-operative governmentCo-operative government is the principle that obliges the three spheres of government (national, provincial and local) to work together in a supportive, consultative, trusting and friendly manner.
state law advisorThis legal specialist checks that draft Bills are constitutional and refines and approves draft Bills.
injunctionA court order which directs someone either to do, or to refrain from doing, a particular thing
exercise of powerThis expression may be used in annotations in a provision that confers power to make secondary (or subordinate) legislation to record the making of instruments under that power.
balance of probabilitiesThe standard of proof required in civil law cases, i.e
amendmentsChanges (or proposed changes) to a Bill or draft resolution before the legislature passes the law or resolution.
christian democratic partyA political party represented in the Legislative Council, formerly 'Call to Australia'.  Clerk of the Legislative Assembly: The senior permanent officer in the Legislative Assembly responsible for ensuring that correct procedure is followed and administration and records are properly maintained.  Clerk of the Parliaments: The senior permanent officer in the Legislative Council, responsible for ensuring that correct procedure is followed and administration and records are properly maintained.  Coalition: A combination of two or more political parties in Parliament.  Committee: A group of Members of Parliament appointed by one or both Houses to consider matters referred to it
self-governmentThe right of a people to create and operate their own form of government.
chattelAny property that is not freehold land
conciliationProcess of resolving disputes which involves negotiations between parties, assisted by a conciliator
formal business1
jurorA member of a jury (q.v.).
special or select committeea temporary committee set up to deal with a specific issue.
clerk of the houseThe most senior parliamentary officer in each chamber.
petitiona document presented to a House of Parliament by a person or a gr oup of people asking for action on a matter; a formal request, especially to a person or group in power: We signed a petition asking for more bicycle paths.
confidentialityProtection against disclosure to an outside person of information revealed in a professional relationship, e.g
leaseA document of agreement between a landlord and a tenant, for rental of premises.
campaigna series of political actions (like advertisements, public appearances, and debates) that are used to help a candidate get elected to office.
embargoA restriction on the distribution or publication of a document or the information it contains.
determinationauthoritative decision, rule or arrangement
judiciaryThe Judges and the Court System.
conservativepeople who generally like to uphold current conditions and oppose changes
the notwithstanding clauseThis clause is contained within section 33 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
in-camerain private or in secret: The woman appearing before the parliamentary committee asked if she could give her evidence in-camera.
the overton windowModern concept advanced by political theorist Joseph Overton whereby there is a small window of political acceptable approaches on any given subject at any time and approaches / ideas not within the window would resultantly be considered extreme and politically unsafe for a politician to uphold
maximum penaltyA maximum penalty is just that; the maximum
bicameral legislaturea Legislature consisting of two houses
responsibilitya duty of care: The Minister had a responsibility for all education matters.
monetarismThe theory that the economy is controlled by raising or lowering the money supply.
mortgageA transfer of real property (land) or personal property (goods) as security for the repayment of money borrowed
moral rightsthe rights of the creator (not the owner) of an artistic, dramatic or literary work or film to have their authorship acknowledged and to protect the integrity of the work or film.
point of orderA question about whether the proceedings of the House or a committee are within the Standing Orders.
voteThe formal expression of opinion for the purpose of reaching a decision
common lawlaw based on custom or court decisions, as distinct from statute law
adjournmentThe procedure by which the sitting of a legislature is brought to a close.
noticeThe formal process by which the House is notified of the intentions of members to introduce Bills, ask questions, or move motions
houseShort for the House of Representatives.
sectionsDistinct, numbered blocks of text that together form an Act of Parliament
readingThe final stage in a Bill's passage through a House of Parliament before it is passed.
risSee regulatory impact statement.
serious injuryIn relation to transport injuries, a serious long-term impairment, disfigurement or loss of a body function, or severe long-term mental or behavioural disturbance, or loss of a foetus.
order1
bankruptcyWhen the financial affairs of an individual are taken over by a trustee and their property distributed amongst their creditors, following the individual becoming unable to pay his or her debts.
breach of contractFailure by one of the parties to a contract (q.v.) to satisfactorily perform the service or action agreed to in the contract.
bond(1) A deed (q.v.) in which a person undertakes to do or refrain from doing certain things, e.g
electiona process in which people vote to choose a leader or to decide an issue.
immunityspecial legal protection for members of Parliament to enable them to carry out their duties, including protection from legal action for anything they say in Parliament.
posseA group of people given authority by a County’s peace officer to assist in preserving the peace.
restraining orderIn family law, an order preventing a specified person from harassing or molesting the person applying for the order.
guardianA person who has the right and duty to protect another person, his or her property and rights
juryA panel of people selected from the general public to decide the guilt or innocence of people tried in criminal cases, or questions of damages (q.v.) in civil cases.
blanket amendmentAn effect that is framed in such a way as to affect legislation generally rather than any specific enactment.
delegated legislationSee regulations.
governmentA reference to the government is a reference:
polling officialsThese are the staffing resources appointed by the Returning Officer to conduct polling in a polling booth/polling place
incumbentA person currently in office.
expiration dateSee "Lapse Date".
estimatesA detailed statement of how the Government proposes its departments and other agencies will spend public money and incur liabilities in a financial year
reading of a billA stage in the process of a Bill being made.
involuntary patientA patient admitted to a mental hospital on a doctor's recommendation and without the patient's consent.
perpetual successionOwnership of property remains with a group or organisation as a whole, not individual members of the group.
revenueincoming money; the money a government collects from taxes and other sources
standing rulessee "Rules".
fort cumberlandOriginally a French fort, known as Fort Beauséjour, it was captured by the British in 1755 and renamed Fort Cumberland.
disallowanceIf delegated legislation is tabled in parliament and either house disallow it, it has the same effect as being repealed.
consumer price indexA measurement of inflation by comparing, at regular intervals, the price (taking weighting into account) of a set of basic consumer goods and services purchased by households.
litigationCourt proceedings in civil matters (q.v.)
noblesPeople holding a distinction of superior rank in society, usually inherited from past generations.
governor-generalthe representative of the Queen in Australia at the federal level.
committal proceedingsWhere a Magistrates' Court hears evidence on an indictable charge (q.v.) and decides whether the accused should be sent for trial (also called a preliminary examination).
agendaNotice paper that contains all items where notice has been given by the House of Commons
seigniorial systemAn agricultural system whereby workers live on a portion of land, and provide services to a landlord, in return for his protecting them.
voidOf no legal effect.
lobbyistA person or group who actively tries to influence legislators about a specific area of interest.
adjournmenttermination of a daily session; occurring at the close of each legislative day upon the completion of business, with the hour and day of the next meeting being set prior to adjournment
pollA research survey as well as another word for an election.
disallowancethe vetoing of delegated legislation by either house of the Parliament, which has the effect of repealing it
rule of lawthe principle that all people are equal before the law, and that all government actions will be undertaken in accordance with the law.
order paperThis programme outlines the legislature's agenda for the day and contains other information about work in progress.
governor-generalthe representative of the Queen in Australia at the federal level
breach of statutory duty(Evidence of negligence (q.v.) through) breaking a law.
easementThe right or freedom to do something or the right to prevent someone else from doing something over the real property (q.v.) of another.
embargoA restriction on the distribution or publication of a document or the information it contains, until the time stipulated for its release
affecting provisionA provision that gives rise to one or more changes or effects.
out of orderContrary to the rules of parliamentary procedure
industrial electionOfficial Position Elections conducted for Registered Organisations (Unions and Employer Groups) and under the auspices of the Workplace Relations Act (in the case of federally registered organisations)
teller a person, usually the Whip, chosen to count or tell the members voting in a division.
disclosureGiving particular information to another party as required by a contract or legal process.
annual sessiona regularly scheduled legislative session that convenes each year
bailBail enables an accused person to be released from custody in between the date of being charged and the eventual hearing of the court case
order in councilAn instrument made by the Governor in Council, ordinarily under an authority stated in an Act, that identifies itself as being an order in council
disinformationInformation that is false or misleading deliberately disseminated for strategic gain
acceptable qualitySee also merchantable quality.
representative governmentThis operated in New South Wales between 1843 and 1856, when two-thirds of the NSW Legislative Council were elected
lawA rule, usually made by a government, that is used to order the way in which a society behaves, or the whole system of such rules.
lapse datea date listed in some legislation after which all or some of the provi-sions of that legislation are no longer in effect
appellantA person who appeals a decision of a court or tribunal.
testamentary dispositionA gift that takes effect on the death of the giver, a bequest made in a will.
pleadingsWritten or printed statements delivered by parties to one another so questions of fact and law to be decided in a court action can be ascertained.
proportional representationProportional Representation is a system of voting essentially designed to elect representatives in proportion to the amount of support each has in the constituency/electorate
beehiveThe Executive Wing to Parliament House, which houses Ministers' offices
engrossmentthe preparation of an exact, accurate and official copy of a measure passed by the house of origin containing the proper endorsement of that house and including all adopted committee and floor amendments; the measure is then forwarded to the opposite house for its consideration
initiative petitionthe method by which the people may submit proposals for legislation or constitutional amendments.
ministerA representative of the government department responsible for the environment presented information to a Senate committee.
testatrixA person (female) who has written a will
sueTo take legal action.
scheduleAn appendix to a bill, often setting out matters that are too detailed to include in the main body of the bill.
supply side economicsThe economic theory espousing the concept that when the supply side of the economy (the producers) is taxed less and subject to less regulation it creates more profit and the tax on that increased profit, even at a lower rate, is equivalent to or even surpasses the original tax
accountableable to be called on to explain ones actions
secretaryThe head or overall "manager" of the legislature's support staff and in many cases, the most senior expert on procedure in the legislature
budgetestimate of the receipts and expenditures needed to carry out programs for a fiscal period.
interrogationThe asking of questions
general assemblyThe original name for the New Zealand Parliament.
assentThe final stage in the process by which a Bill becomes an Act
motionA statement or argument that has to be debated and voted upon in the Chamber.
judicial powerthe power to interpret or apply the law in particular cases; one of the three powers under the Constitution, the others being the legislative power and the executive power
paper1
committee sectionThe support department in the legislature that facilitates all the organisational requirements of the Committees, such as organising committee meetings, hearings and field trips.
interest groupa group of people organised to further some cause or interest which they have in common: Members of Parliament often get letters from interest groups asking for support.
deportationExpulsion from a country of a resident non-citizen who has committed a serious crime or is considered a threat to national security.
unicameralconsisting of one chamber or house, especially of a law-making body
limited governmentA right wing concept that espouses the practice that any public service that could reasonably be solely supplied by the market, or harmful action that could be self regulated or otherwise controlled by public censure, should be.
executiveThe branch of government concerned with the formulation and execution of policy and laws
repealTo abrogate (q.v.) or cancel legislation (q.v.) or a regulation (q.v.).
contract noteA simplified form of preliminary contract (q.v.) used in the sale of real estate.
seven years war(1756 – 1763) The final war between France and Great Britain, which ended with the signing of the Treaty of Paris in 1763 – giving all of North America to Great Britain, except New Orleans and the small islands of St
order of councilSuch Orders differ from Orders in Council in that they are made by the Privy Council without the need for any approval by the Queen
galleryThe section in the House for the public and press where they may view a legislative sitting.
question1
primary legislationGeneral term used to describe the main laws passed by the legislative bodies of the UK (e.g
polla survey of people (usually voters) that is taken to find out which candidate or issue they might vote for.
tribunalA body set up to hear and decide disputes, usually with less formality and less strict rules of evidence than in a court proceeding.
guillotinea procedure which sets time limits on the passage of a bill or motion
statute bookAll legislation taken as a body of law.
scottish statutory instrumentA type of secondary legislation made under authority contained in Acts of the Scottish Parliament.
sergeant-at-armsan officer of the Legislative Assembly (House of Representatives) who carries out the orders of the House, such as accompanying a member who is directed to leave the House.
royal prerogativeThe rights, powers and privileges enjoyed and/or exercised by the Crown.
points systemUnder the Points System, a voter awards a particular number of points to their first chosen candidate, but a lesser number of points is awarded the second preferred candidate and so on, to the required number
recessthe period between sessions of Parliament, but in ordinary usage the word is often used to describe the periods between the main sitting periods each year, as in the winter recess
at-largeAt-large refers to offices that are elected by the voters of an entire county or district even though the office may only represent one part of the county or district.
reinstated/revivedSome jurisdictions allow a previously lapsed Bill to be reintroduced to parliament.
material formany form of storage from which a copyright (q.v.) work can be reproduced.
judicialhaving to do with judges or law courts.
inter-colonial railwayA railway connecting the Dominion of Canada, first established between Truro, Nova Scotia and Rivière du Loup, Québec in 1876, and passing through Moncton and central New Brunswick
readingA formal stage in the process of considering a bill, where the House orders that the title of the bill be read out
grass rootsThe ordinary and common people, often agrarian
supplementary estimatesA statement of further amounts to be spent by Government departments, offices of Parliament, Crown entities, State enterprises, and public organisations in the current financial year in addition to the details of spending contained in the Estimates
utilitarianismConsequentialist philosophy originally espoused by 18th century writer Jeremy Bentham whereby the best policy is that which gives the greatest happiness to the greatest number.
international monetary fundThe IMF was created at the famous Bretton Woods following the Second World War in 1945
false imprisonmentConfinement of a person without legal permission.
appealTo take a case to a higher court in order to challenge a decision
chief justiceThe title of the presiding judge at the supreme court of Canada
terms of referenceThe preset terms under which an inquiry is conducted or a decision is made.
oath of allegiance A declaration, using God's name, made by members of Parliament that they will be loyal to the Queen.
consentA unanimous consent of all Members of the House when the House decides to set aside its rules or usual practice without notice.
principal actAnother name given to a public Act
proclamationan official public announcement.
press galleryCollective term for accredited media reporters who report on Parliament's proceedings.
misrepresentationMaking a false statement, either deliberately or unintentionally, to induce someone to do something they would otherwise not have done, e.g
uniform legislationLegislation made in conjunction with other jurisdictions with the intention of making the law uniform between the jurisdictions
subordinate legislationSee Delegated Legislation
copyrightThe rights belonging to the owner or licensee of literary, artistic and dramatic works, films and sound recordings, to reproduce, perform or otherwise deal with these works.
motiona proposal on procedure or action presented to a legislative body.
substitutionDescribes a specific type of amendment where existing text is replaced by new text.
lobbyA group organized to influence the opinions and decisions of legislators.
assentSee Royal Assent
sectiona separately-numbered provision in an Act of Parliament corresponding to a clause in a bill
prima facieOn the face of it; enough evidence to indicate legal action is likely to be successful.
orders of the dayThe items of business set down on the Order Paper.
fair dealinglegitimate use or reproduction of part or all of copyright (q.v.) material by someone other than the copyright owner, for defined purposes.
portfolio committeeA parliamentary Committee in the National Assembly that focuses on a particular government department and its field of work.
taggingA process of classifying or "tagging" a Bill as belonging to one of four groups: Section 75 Bill (does not affect the provinces), Section 76 Bill (does affect the provinces), a constitutional amendment (Section 74) or a Money Bill (Section 77)
bail authorityA person who has authority to grant or refuse bail such as police, Magistrates, District and Supreme Court Judges, as authorised by the Bail Act 1985.
parliamentary democracyA system of government whereby the people (electors) determine and exercise their political will by selecting representatives (through formal election) to represent them in the parliament, and to make laws.
by-lawsFormer name of local laws (q.v.).
overseas electorAn elector who is going overseas for three years or less can apply to be an overseas elector within 3 months before leaving Australia or within 1 year after the day on which the they ceased to reside in Australia.
advocate/advocacya person or group working for change in order to improve the quality of life on behalf of one's self or others
hansardThe name of the printed transcripts of parliamentary debates.
rulesprovisions for the procedure, organization, officers and committees of the Legislature.
joint resolutionSee "Resolution".
pollA sampling or collection of opinions on a subject
summonsA document which is issued by the court requiring the attendance of the person named in the summons at court on a specified date.
reporta statement, usually in writing, of the results of an inquiry.
examinationFormal interrogation in court of a person bound by oath or affirmation to answer truthfully.
sequestration orderAn order that property be seized to satisfy a debt.
contact orderAn order stating the kind and frequency of contact between a child and another person - usually the parent with whom the child is not living
representation commissionAn independent statutory body that reviews and redraws electoral district boundaries.
australian electoral commissionThe Commonwealth agency responsible for providing Australians with an independent electoral service and enhancing their understanding of, and participation in, the electoral process.
arrestTo apprehend or take into custody a person suspected of having committed a crime.
royal consentThe consent on behalf of the Crown that is put forth by a Minister for certain bills requiring Sovereign consent, usually when dealing with bills that are of interest to the Sovereign.
slmp billSee Statute Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill.
ex officiothe holding of a particular office by reason of holding another
conference committeea joint committee whose function is to arrive at a single version of a bill which has passed the two legislative houses in somewhat different form
public serviceGovernment organisations and staff employed in them.
in loco parentisIn the position of a parent; having the same authority as a parent over a child.
linked credit providerA credit provider that has an arrangement with a supplier of goods that people wanting to borrow money to buy those goods will be directed to that credit provider.
factiona group of people within a larger group, usually a political party.
scottish representative peersA group of sixteen peers elected to represent Scottish interests in the House of Lords
mandamusA form of writ to commence an action for review of an administrative decision (failure to perform a duty) in the Supreme Court.
corporationA company; a business with Limited (Ltd) or Proprietary Limited (Pty Ltd) after its name.
deficit / national debtThe shortfall in any one year of a nation's income as compared to its expenditure / the total unpaid accumulated debt of the government over time.
historical versionsSuperseded copies of legislation, as made available on the government web sites
biennial sessiona regular scheduled legislative session which convenes every other year
division or electorateAustralia is divided into voting areas, which are known as divisions or electorates
subordinate legislationSee secondary legislation.
discretionPower to choose whether to do or not to do a certain thing, e.g
redistribution commissionerspersons chosen by the Governor-General who periodically redistribute electoral boundaries to ensure each electoral division has roughly the same number of voters
prosecutionThe party (q.v.) presenting evidence against the person accused of committing a crime.
x-notes - editorial informationThe X-note annotation type is used sparingly to alert users to anything they may need to be aware of in using the text
parliamentary committeea small group of members of Parliament, usually drawn from all parties in one or both of the houses, which examines, reports on, and makes recommendations about a particular subject
clerks certificatethe statement signed by the Clerk of a house to state that a bill has passed that house, with or without amendments; every bill must have a final Clerks certificate before it is sent to the Governor-General for the royal assent
daily order of businessThe recurring sequence of business for each sitting day in the House of Commons
explanatory memoranduma paper which explains the purpose and details of Bills or regulations, usually in a simple and less technical way.
concurrent resolutiona resolution passed by both houses of the Legislature to ex-press facts, principles, opinions, wishes and purposes of the Legislature
house of representativesAt Federation, the House of Representatives was formed as the People's House and is the House in which the government is formed
plebisiteA decision on an issue made by a group of people
deputy clerkThe senior official appointed by the Governor in Council who is responsible for procedural and administrative tasks.
procureTo encourage or persuade someone to commit an offence.
amendmentA change that is made to a bill, a motion or a committee report with the intention of improving it.
referto send a measure to committee for study and consideration.
quo warrantoBy what authority; a prerogative writ (q.v.) to remedy improper use of public office.
ministerswho as senior Members of the governing party, are responsible for the development and implementation of policy
out of order not in accordance with recognised parliamentary rules.
expirationThe ending of a term of Parliament if it exceeds the legal time limit, which is three years from the date set for the declaration of the results after the previous general election
wabanahki confederacy(wah-bah-NAH-kee) A political alliance established in the early 1700’s by Maliseet, Mi’kmaq, Passamaquoddy, Penobscot, and Abenaki leaders.
assignmentLegal transfer of a right or an interest in property from the owner to another person.
suspended sentenceA sentence of imprisonment which is only served if the convicted person commits further offences
mandatoryHaving to be strictly complied with
repatriationThe sending back of someone to his country of origin such as an illegal immigrant or prisoner of war.
memorandumThe brief explanation that is attached to the end of a Bill.
affirmation of allegiancesee oath or affirmation of allegiance
house of reviewa name often used to refer to the Senate, meaning a house which provides a second look or a close re-examination of matters considered in the other house
polical partyAn organised group with a common political philosophy which seeks to win and retain public office
legislationWritten law made by the Parliament, or by a delegate of the Parliament such as the Governor in Council
pre-sentence reportA report, usually prepared by the Department of Human Services, for the court to consider before sentencing a young person.
sub judiceunder consideration or waiting consideration by a court of law.
unliquidatedUndetermined, unascertained, e.g
supplementan addendum to the Oklahoma Statutes printed every year, with the exception of once every ten years when the Oklahoma Statutes are published in their entirety, with additions to or deletions from Oklahoma laws to bring them up to date and to correct any errors.
statute bookA term we use to denote the totality of the statute law in force at any particular time.
means testingLimiting government benefits, such as a baby bonus or health care, to those below a certain income or accumulated wealth.
green paperA draft policy document drafted by a Department and used as a tool to consult the public This initial document, once discussion is finalised, usually becomes a White Paper.
electoral commissionerThe officer who performs the functions of the Chief Executive Officer of the AEC.
caucusa private meeting of a group of people that belong to the same political party or have the same goal that decide policy, choose candidates or promote certain causes
provisionA general term for an element of a bill, such as a clause, subclause, part or schedule.
legislative powerthe power to make and change laws; one of three powers under the Constitution, the others being the judicial power and the executive power
legislative council chamberThe chamber in Parliament House where the Legislative Council met before its abolition in 1951
messagethe most common form of official communication between the houses
leadership staffemployed by the President Pro Tempore.
beneficiaryA person who is left something in a will, or a person for whose benefit property is held by trustees or executors.
standing committeea parliamentary committee appointed by either house or both houses to inquire into and report on certain matters; a standing committee usually continues to exist for the life of a Parliament
pecuniaryInvolving money
lawBinding rules by which society is governed
administratorA person appointed to manage the estate of a person who has died without leaving a will, or the financial affairs of a person who lacks legal capacity
legislatureA law-making body
hearsay evidenceEvidence of a fact not personally seen or heard by a witness, but proved by him or her to have been said by another
statutory instrumentA type of secondary legislation made under authority contained in Acts of Parliament.
matter of public importancea matter of general nature that can be raised as a matter of urgency which must be supported by a certain number of other members.
ceremonyA formal event that follows rules or traditions.
statuteAnother word for an Act of Parliament.
socialismA method of government in which the means of planning and producing goods and services are controlled by a central government which also seeks to collect the wealth of the nation and distribute it evenly amongst its citizens.
house of commonsone of two houses of Parliament in the United Kingdom and Canada, in which members are elected on the basis of population
perjuryLying under oath (q.v.) when questioned in a court proceeding or when making a sworn statement
standards(Within the context of SAI Global Lawlex Premium Research), refers to Australian and New Zealand Standards.
retrospective legislationa.k.a
taxable formRefers to a lawyer's bill of costs (q.v.) which shows details of all the lawyer's charges.
rescissionA revocation or stopping action, particularly of a contract
syndicalismEarly twentieth century revolutionary political doctrine whereby the means of production is taken over in a general strike by worker's unions who then will effectively take over government.
greens wa formed on 1 January 1990, a merger of the WA Green party and the Green Earth Alliance.
notice of motion an announcement of intention to put forward a motion for consideration, nearly always for a later day.
parliamentary libraryThe library and analytical information service for members of Parliament and staff.
unconscionable conductAction that takes unfair advantage of another party that is under a special disability (q.v.) in a contract or transaction.
civil servantsPeople who work for the Government
dischargeTo fulfil or be released from an obligation
at large(An animal) not securely confined to the owner's property.
candidatea person who is running for an office.
changesThe terms ‘changes' and ‘changes to legislation' are sometimes used on this site instead of the term ‘effects'.
statutea law enacted by the Legislature.
absolute privilegeThe protection given to parliamentary and court proceedings that any information produced or revealed in them cannot give rise to an action for defamation.
auditor-generalThe Auditor-General's office checks on the accounts, financial statements and financial management of all state departments at all levels of government
partA division of a bill, which contains a group of clauses under a single heading
abstract motionAn Abstract Motion only expresses an opinion or desire, and it doesn't bind the House or the government to any course of action.
statutory instruments actAct that confers the responsibility for the publication of the Canada Gazette to the Queen’s Printer.
métisThe Métis in Canada are one of the three recognized Aboriginal peoples in Canada
sessional ordera temporary rule governing the conduct of business in a house of Parliament, which applies only for a defined period within the session in which it is made (and see standing orders)
mandateThe alleged command, and thus authority, a winning political party has to institute its pre-election policies because of the fact it had a convincing win.
lienThe right to hold a person's property as security for the performance of an obligation (e.g
assentSee Royal assent.
respondentA person against whom a summons has been issued or an appeal brought.
trust deedA document which sets out the rights and obligations of the trustee and beneficiaries (q.v.) of a trust (q.v.).
adjournment debatea debate usually at the end of each sitting day of a house when members make speeches about any subject on the motion to end the sitting
affirmationA pledge that statements made are true which may be made in place of an oath if an oath is contrary to a person's religious belief or if the person has no religious belief
districta geographic division of the state on the basis of population and in accordance with conditions laid down by the courts, Congress or the Legislature.
motionA proposal put to the house framed in a way that will result in the opinion of the house being expressed or a decision being made.
visaPermit that allows either temporary or permanent stay in a country.
forensic procedureExamination of the body of a person suspected of having committed an offence, or the taking of certain body samples.
probateThe proving of a will, the acceptance by the Probate Registry of the Supreme Court that the deceased's will is valid (q.v.) and the last will in existence.
houseOne of the two houses in a bicameral system
ombudsmanan official whose job is to look into peoples complaints against the government or public servants
independent broadcasting authorityThis is an independent body that regulates broadcasting in the public interest
act of bankruptcyAn action of a debtor that shows an inability to pay their creditors.
onus of proofBurden of proof (q.v.).
natural justiceThe rules and procedures to be followed by a person or body with the power to settle disputes
committeeA committee existing for the life of the Parliament.  Standing Rules and Orders: Permanent rules governing the conduct of business in the House, e.g., the stages through which Bills proceed, the conduct of debates, etc.  Statute Law: Parliament-made law as expressed in an Act.
secretarya public servant who is the administrative head of a government department
delegatea person who is chosen to represent a local political party at a political convention.
order of precedenceThis is the symbolic hierarchy of importance for the positions in the Government of Canada
hearinga session of a legislative committee at which witnesses present testimony on matters under consideration by the committee.
waiveTo give up a legal right or claim.
royal assentSignification by the Governor in the Queen's name of assent to a Bill becoming an Act
contributory negligenceA defence in an action for damages for injuries arising from the defendant's negligence
professional indemnity insuranceInsurance that provides cover for a person against claims for negligence arising out of the performance of his or her professional duties.
revised legislationWe use the terms ‘revise', ‘revised' and ‘revision' to refer to the editorial process of incorporating amendments and carrying through other effects into legislation.
consolidationsAn Act bringing together all existing statute law on a certain subject
reconsiderto consider again a vote on any action previously taken by the Legislature
compulsory third party insuranceInsurance paid with vehicle registration to insure against damage caused to other people, limited to personal injuries suffered by them.
select committeea group of members from either House or both Houses, appointed to inquire into and report on a particular subject
plenary sessionA sitting of the legislature as a whole.
immunitythe protection of members of Parliament and others from civil or criminal action in relation to their participation in parliamentary proceedings, and the protection of parliamentary proceedings from impeachment or question in the courts (see also privilege, parliamentary)
independent complaints directorateThis independent body is responsible for ensuring that cases in which misconduct on the part of police officers is alleged, are investigated impartially.
green papera preliminary discussion document, usually issued in advance of the formation of government policy.
fraudIntentionally dishonest act (or lack of action) done to deceive someone.
legislaturea body or group that has the power to make laws
tablingThe process whereby Bills are introduced in Parliament or a provincial legislature for the first time.
billA proposal for a law to be considered by Parliament.
libertarianismA political philosophy of self reliance, reason and maximum non-interference by the state in matters of both economic and personal affairs
coalitionAn arrangement between more than one political party/group
enactmentThe point at which a law, as expressed in an Act of parliament, comes into force.
ministerial accountabilitythe requirement that a minister can be called upon to explain in Parliament his or her actions and those of the department and agencies under his or her control
treaty of utrechtAn agreement between Great Britain and France, signed in 1713, which ended the War of the Spanish Succession
saqamaw(SA-ga-maw)A Mi’kmaq word, meaning chief
standing committeesee "Committee".
opening speech a speech by the Queen, or her representative, the Governor; in which the reasons for the calling together of Parliament are given and the Government's plans for new laws are outlined. 
consultationThe consultation process involves the pre-publication of proposed regulations in the Canada Gazette, Part Ⅰ
schedule a list at the end of a Bill or Act which contains matters of detail: The schedule to the Act contained the list of exempt departments.
abductionUnlawful removal of a person (often a child) from their home environment.
fixed terma term of office with a defined beginning and end
conveneto come together in a body or group for meeting or gathering
high court the court set up under the Constitution to decide matters arising out of the Constitution, and to hear appeals from the supreme courts of the States and other Federal Courts. 
next friendA person you can choose to assist you in presenting your case in court, but who cannot speak for you.
roll call votea recorded vote on a measure by which members respond either "aye" or "nay" when their names are called or by indicating the same on an electronic roll call machine
vexatious(Legal action) that is unnecessary or undertaken only to cause trouble or inconvenience for the other party.
administrative actA decision, or refusal to make a decision, by an officer of a government department and which is subject to review either internally or externally by the courts.
regulationa law made under the authority of an Act of Parliament.
first readingthe first stage in the progress of a Bill through a House
wampum belt(WAUH-pum) In the Wabanahki tradition, shell beads were strung together and woven into belts, as a written document to record an important law, agreement, or event.
public officerPerson appointed to act on behalf of an incorporated association in any public dealings.
codicilA document signed by a willmaker that alters or adds to an existing will.
lord lieutenantThe monarch's personal representative in an English or Welsh county
third readingthe final stage in the passage of a Bill through a House of Parliament.
jersey islandsChannel Islands belonging to Great Britain, located in the English Channel between France and England.
witnessA person who can provide direct information based on their own knowledge about a relevant fact in issue, and appears in court to do this.
termthe length of time a political official may serve once elected
wolastoqew(wool-as-took-WAY) This word is used as an adjective, referring to objects, traditions, or ideas belonging to Wolastoqiyik.
royal assentthe signing of a Bill by the Queen's representative (The Governor in the case of State Parliaments, the Govern-General in the case of federal Parliament), which is the last step of making a Bill into an Act of Parliament.
ideologyAn ideology is a set of ideas about how the country should be run
name  to formally identify a member for disorderly behaviour during a sitting of a House by which action a presiding officer sets in train disciplinary proceedings which may result in the suspension of a member.
ayeAn old English word for yes
amendmentAn effect that changes the text of legislation
routine proceedingsThe daily time period set aside in the House to deal with routine business.
national prosecuting authorityThe National Prosecuting Authority, headed by the National Director of Public Prosecutions, is charged with the responsibility of co-ordinating the effecting prosecution of suspect charged with criminal offences in the country.
parliamentA representative assembly that is constitutionally empowered to make laws within a given jurisdiction – a legislature
democracyThis term gets thrown around a lot, but not a lot of people know what it means or how it is expressed
indemnityCompensation for a wrong done, or an expense or loss suffered as a result of the act or default of another
statutesSee Act
money billsMoney Bills allocate public money for a particular purpose or impose taxes, levies or duties
explanatory memoranduma paper which explains the purpose and details of bills or regulations, usually in a simple and non-technical way
legislative processthe series of actions which result in a law being made
means testAssessment of a person's income and assets to see if they qualify for financial assistance.
freedom of informationThe right of any person to have access to documents held by government agencies, except those exempted by legislation.
plain englishThe writing of legislation in plain English involves the use of language, presentation, structure and style that makes the legislation easily read and understood
conference committeeSee "Committee".
readingThe stage in the passage of a Bill through Parliament at which the major debate takes place on its principle or purpose
portfoliothe area of responsibility or duties of a minister in a government
sheriffAn officer of the court responsible primarily for enforcement of court orders.
duty lawyerA lawyer at the court who provides free legal assistance to people appearing in court on criminal charges who have not yet had legal advice.
press galleryThe area above the Chamber where accredited media reporters sit.
minutesaccurate chronological record of the proceedings of a meeting.
minutes of proceedingsA formal record, prepared by the clerk of the committee, of all decisions taken by the committee (similar to the Journals in the House).
standing committeea permanent committee set up to handle legislation in a certain field.
ordinancePrevious name for Acts in the Territories, including the Northern Territory and the Australian Capital Territory.
readingspresentation of a bill or joint resolution
paramountMost important.
repealDescribes a specific type of amendment where existing text ceases to have effect and may also be removed from the legislation
state governmentsFederalism operates throughout Australia since the responsibility to govern is shared between the Commonwealth and the states.
motion to reconsidera motion to consider again an action of the house in which the measure is being considered
accessoryA person who assists in the commission of a crime, as distinguished from the principal offender.
freedom of informationthe principle that citizens should have a right to see most government papers and reports, particularly those which relate to their personal affairs
concurrent resolutionSee "Resolution".
encumbranceCharges or liabilities e.g
vetodisapproval by the Governor of a measure
annulTo declare void in law
judgmentThe official decision of the Court upon the claims of parties to an action or suit lodged with the Court for determination
assentSee royal assent.
inadmissibleNot allowed, i.e
think tankA non government, non-profit, research institute of scholars / physical scientists generally dedicated to the advocacy of some broad political, economic or social belief.
constitutional convention1
maceA symbol of the Speaker's authority
leader of the oppositionThe leader of the largest political party in the House of Representatives that is not part of the Government.
resolutiona motion which has been agreed to by a house and expresses the will or opinion of that house
odgers australian senate practicethe main reference book on the law, practice and procedure of the Senate
real propertyLand or other real estate.
committeea group of members of a legislative body to which is assigned a special task.
lobbyistpeople who are associated with groups (like labor unions, corporations, etc.) and who try to persuade members of the government (like members of Congress) to enact legislation that would benefit their group.
statutory defenceA ground for defence included in a particular law which would prevent a person from being found guilty of an offence under the law.
bill analysisa synopsis consisting of background information, statement of purpose, section-by-section analysis and a summary of all previous legislative action on the measure.
revocationCancelling the effect of a previous act, e.g
presiding officersThe members of parliament elected to preside over meeting of their respective Houses (the President and the Speaker); they also take responsibility for the administration of the parliamentary departments.
parliament groundsThe landscaped gardens and open area surrounding Parliament House, the Beehive, and the Parliamentary Library.
budget billsproposals for new laws to allow the government to spend money; there are usually two main bills - Appropriation Bill (No
simple resolutiona resolution which expresses the opinion or will of one house only and does not have the force and effect of law
recedeto withdraw from an amendment in which the opposite house refused to concur.
domestic partnershipA relationship where two people (of the same or opposite sex) are not married but are living or have lived together as a couple.
constitutional courtThis court is the highest court of the Judiciary and deals only with matters that relate to the Constitution
clear titleOutright ownership, without any debts or charges on the property.
wabanahkik(wah-bah-NAH-keek) A traditional First Nation word, meaning “The Land of the Dawn”
officer a permanent career official or employee of one of the parliamentary departments which provide support services for the Parliament.
particularsDetails of a claim or defence.
machiavellianAdjective to describe manipulative and cynical political activity where morals and principles have little account
ohio valleyThe region of the Ohio River, located in central United States.
ctoTreatment of an involuntary patient (q.v.) by a medical practitioner in the community, not in a mental hospital.
personal explanationa short statement made by a member concerning a matter with which he or she is personally connected, or by a member who feels he or she has been misrepresented and who wishes to state the correct facts or situation.
limited warA war, often not formally declared, fought to obtain specific political / territorial objectives, rather than to obtain the unconditional surrender of the enemy.
candidatea person who is running for an office
committeeA group of members of parliament that considers matters referred to it and reports its findings to parliament.
recallto retrieve, by concurrent resolution, a measure which has been presented to the Governor, for the correction of errors.
revenueincoming money; the money Government collects from taxes and other sources.
vacancyan unoccupied position or office.
public general actsPrincipal Acts which have general application and are regularly reprinted.
property rightThe right to use, control, benefit and exclude others from any tangible or intangible object.
interim orderA temporary court order allowing or preventing certain action, until a full hearing can make a decision on the matter.
stop dateThe date on which a version is succeeded by a new version or otherwise ceases to have effect.
subpoenaA writ which commands the appearance of a person or the production of specified documents in a court.
enactto pass a law.
timeline of changesFacility on legislation.gov.uk providing access to revised legislation as it stood at specific points in time
republicA form of government where, in word or deed, rule is constrained by institutional frameworks and is not by the selected few
question timeSee questions for oral answer.
aggravating factorsCircumstances that make an offence much more serious.
wardA division of a local government district.
jurisdictionThe authority of a court to decide matters brought before it; the geographical limit within which a court order can be enforced.
serjeant-at-armsan officer of the Department of the House of Representatives (and carrier of the Mace) who carries out the orders of the House and who assists to keep order in Parliament House
proclaimedActs do not necessarily commence operation on assent
bill of rightsA part of the Constitution (Chapter Two) which outlines the basic rights of every person living in South Africa
duressUndue pressure placed on a person to force him or her to do something.
vote inscritLorsque les noms de ceux qui votent pour ou contre une motion sont inscrits dans le registre officiel de la Chambre, ou dans celui de l' un de ses commités.
counterclaimA claim made by a defendant against the plaintiff asserting an independent cause of action
mitigationCircumstances which go towards reducing the damages or punishment which the court may order against a defendant or prisoner.
archivesFiles containing all Canada Gazette issues published between 1998 and 2010.
treaty of parisThe agreement between France and Great Britain, signed in 1763, which ended the Seven Years War and gave all of North America to Great Britain, except New Orleans and the small islands of St
treatment orderA court order that a person suffering from mental illness be sent to a psychiatric hospital for treatment instead of to prison after conviction for an offence.
express repealWhen one item of delegated legislation repeals another item of delegated legislation.
psychosurgeryBrain surgery used as a way of treating mental disorders.
interimthe period between sine die adjournment of one regular legislative session to the convening of the next regular legislative session.
polityan organised society; a political unit and its system of government.
constitutional monarchya country which has a monarch, whose powers are limited by a constitution
trust accountA special bank account where a lawyer deposits money held on behalf of other people, subject to strict accounting rules.
gaga procedure for closing a discussion in a house when some members still wish to speak
stamp taxAn act passed by the British Parliament in 1765 to tax certain transactions and printed items in the American colonies.
moveto make a formal proposal
contempt of courtThe failure to obey a court order or an act which shows a disregard for the authority of the court or judge
scheduleAn item of legislation may have one or more schedules following the main body
parliamentary privilegeThe exercise of certain powers and the claiming of certain immunities for members of Parliament and other people (officers and witnesses) taking part in Parliament's proceedings
parliamentary procedurerules for and methods of carrying out the business of a house of Parliament
first readingthe first stage in the progress through a house of a bill (also called its initiation), marked by the reading by the Clerk out loud for the first time of the long title of a bill, usually straight after it is presented to the house
hire purchaseWhere goods are sold with instalment payments required from the purchaser
deponentPerson who swears an affidavit (q.v.).
incumbenta person who is currently in office.
gazettalthe placement of official notices in the WA Government Gazette , upon which they are considered to have been notified to the public.
ngoA non-profit non-government organization.
first chambera name for the lower and usually larger house of a legislature; in Australia, the House of Representatives
consumer guaranteeRegime of automatic rights under the Australian Consumer Law cf Consumers: Contracts and Credit
lobbyistSomeone who acts professionally to serve as a go-between for people or business with a complaint about specific legislation and the relevant government minister/secretary
federalisma system of government in which powers and responsibilities are divided between a national government and provincial or state governments
defendantA person who has been charged with a criminal offence, or whom a civil action has been brought against.
proclamationan official public announcement, usually published in the Commonwealth of Australia Gazette
sunset legislationA statute that states that the statute, or part of it, is to be in force only for a particular period, at the end of which it ceases to have effect.
lessorA person who leases property or goods to another.
amendmenta change or addition to a bill
masterLegal officer of the Supreme Court empowered to perform auxiliary judicial duties.
ministerial accountabilitythe requirement that a Minister can be called on to explain in Parliament his or her actions and those of the department and agencies under his or her control.
prorogueThis comes from the French word “proroguer”, which means to delay or postpone
common lawThe part of English law traditionally based on common custom and being unwritten
legislationThe laws put forth by Parliament, including orders and regulations.
floorthe interior of either chamber; "floor action" describes the consideration of measures by the entire membership of the respective chambers.
budget policy statementA paper presented by the Minister of Finance in the months before the Budget, foreshadowing the Budget and its policy goals
motherhood statementA ‘feel good' platitude supporting an uncontroversial cause that few would dare disagree with.
optional preferential votingA system of voting in which a voter marks/selects the preferences for candidates of their choice, but the voter need not mark/select preferences for all candidates listed on the ballot
imprest supply billA bill that proposes giving the Government temporary authority to spend public money and incur liabilities until detailed spending proposals are approved by way of an Appropriation Bill.
tabulated summarymy.lawlex.com.au's representation of amendments in table format showing the sections affected, amending section of amending title, how the sections have been affected and the commencement details.
rule of lawthe principle that all people are equal before the law, and that all government action will be undertaken in accordance with the law
prayera request at the end of a petition, usually that a certain course of action be taken or not taken
ex-nuptialOut of marriage; illegitimate.
auditor generalOfficer of Parliament appointed under the Governor Council, to audit the accounts of Canada and investigate financial affairs of the government.
judiciaryThe arm of the State dealing with the administration of justice; a system of courts of law responsible for checking the legality of the laws and their compliance with the Constitution as well as deciding what to do if laws are broken.
redistributiona new arrangement of the electoral divisions in a state or territory with the result that the boundaries of some existing divisions are changed
point of ordermotion calling attention to an alleged breach of order or rules.
comprehensive insuranceInsurance that covers claims against the insured by other persons for damage to their property as well as covering the insured for damage to his or her own property.
notice of motionNotice of a member's intention to move a motion, the text of which is printed on the Order Paper.
petitionA document presented to the House, signed by one person or a number of people, requesting that a certain course of action be taken (or not be taken).
logrollingA practice in American legislatures where two or more members agree to support each other's bills.
undue influenceTaking unfair or improper advantage of the weakness of another party to make them agree to something.
stamp dutyA state tax on transfers of ownership of assets or property, or on leases.
easementsRights or freedoms to do something or rights to prevent someone else from doing something over the real property of another
sittingsperiods of meetings of a house of Parliament; in the federal Parliament there are usually three periods of sittings (Autumn, Winter and Spring) in the year, during which neither house adjourns for more than 20 days
stamp dutyA tax levied on documents, now typically associated with property sales
platformThe policies or plans that candidates/political parties promise to introduce, if elected to power.
liberalismA philosophy advocating the rights of the individual as against the state or church as espoused by such eighteenth century English writers as John Locke and J.S
trespassWrongful entry onto or interference with a property without the permission of the lawful owner or occupier.
powersthe three types of authority legislative, executive and judicial provided under the Australian Constitution; the legislative powers of the federal Parliament
introductory textA term we use to denote the text elements at the top of an item of legislation, below the title (or short title) but above the main body
constitutional monarchyA system in which the powers of the Monarch are limited by the written or unwritten constitution of the country
omnibus billIn general, an omnibus bill seeks to amend, repeal or enact several Acts, and it is characterized by the fact that it has a number of related but separate parts.
mobile polling teamA team of polling officials who bring the polling to the elector
adrProcess for resol­ving disputes outside the court system, e.g
digesta Senate publication prepared by the records staff containing the floor agenda, com-mittee meeting notices and the calendar.
unicameralA description of a parliament that consists of a single House, or legislative chamber — in New Zealand's case, the House of Representatives
amenityFeatures, benefits or advantages of the local environment that people currently enjoy.
quashTo set aside, cancel.
request for insertion formsForms that clients are required to complete in order to publish a notice in the Canada Gazette
emergency clausea provision, requiring two-thirds approval by both houses, that allows a measure to become effective immediately upon the signature of the Governor or at a specified date
compendiumIt is basically a large encyclopedia there to provide people with a better understanding of how the House of Commons and its Committees operate.
madrasA city in India, located on the Bay of Bengal.
regulationsLaws which sets out rules that are usually of general application
representativeA person elected to parliament to represent the people of a division (House of Representatives) or State (Senate).
repatriateA term that is mostly thrown around after a war, it refers to the process of sending people back to their homes (i.e
titleThe words appearing at the start of an Act, before the formal words of enactment, that describe briefly the Act's purview
federalisma system of government in which powers and responsibilities are divided between a national Government and state or provincial Governments.
second reading the second reading of a passage of a Bill through a House at which time discussion on the principle or purpose of the Bill takes place.
recessionA country's economic status achieved following two consecutive quarters of a drop in real GNP.
testamentary capacityThe ability to draw up a valid will, the mental capacity to understand about property rights and family responsibilities.
terma limited period of time during which an office is held
standing committeea group of members appointed by either House or both Houses to inquire into and report on certain matters
necessariesThe basic requirements for a reasonable lifestyle, e.g
notice paperthe document issued each sitting day which lists all outstanding business before a house of Parliament (including orders of the day, notices of motion, notices of intention to present bills as well as questions on notice)
defamationPublication of false and derogatory statements about another person, without any justification recognised by law
exhibitA document or thing shown to a witness when giving evidence, produced for inspection to the court or referred to in an affidavit (q.v.).
business of the houseA summary of each item of business considered by the House or that had appeared on Notice Paper.
codificationthe process by which newly enacted law is systematically numbered within the Oklahoma Statutes.
contraveneTo breach, neglect or refuse to comply with a particular requirement or condition.
daysDays on which Houses of Parliament sit. 
electoral systemA set of rules or regulations which lays out how the executive or legislative parts of government get elected
conveneto assemble the Legislature or either house thereof
quorumthe minimum number of people who have to be present to constitute a meeting; the minimum number of members who have to be present for a House or committee to be able to conduct business and make decisions.
vice-regalconcerning or having to do with a person appo inted as a deputy by the King or Queen; having to do with a person acting in place of or representing a King or Queen: As the Governor attended the dinner it was a vice-regal function.
cohabitationLiving together as a couple.
wardSubdivisions, with approximately equal numbers of electors, of a local government area.
fowlingThe hunting of birds.
royal charterAn official document signed by the King.
appropriation billA bill that is introduced by the Government to seek authority from Parliament to spend public money and incur liabilities
parliament housethe building where the two houses of Parliament meet, on Capital Hill in the Australian Capital Territory
redistributionThe redrawing of electoral boundaries to ensure that there are approximately the same number of electors in each division in the state or territory.
geographerA person who studies the earth’s surface.
financial yeara 12-month period, usually 1 July to 30 June, at the end of which a government or company balances its accounts and reports on them
senateThe Senate was formed as the States' House or house of review
staffthe pool of persons employed to provide services to the members of the Senate.
joint rulesSee "Rules".
plebisciteAn issue put before the electorate which does not affect the Constitution
cross examinationThe questioning of a witness by the opposing party (q.v.) in a court case.
enacting clausethe phrase: "BE IT ENACTED BY THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA:"
clerk of the parliamentsThe senior permanent parliamentary officer.
exempt subordinate legislationSubordinate legislation not required to be drafted by OQPC
party caucusThis is an exclusive meeting of the members of a party in which they strategise over their party's stance on an issue, plan who will speak in a debate etc.
voidIn Victoria, under s
pragmatismA non-ideological approach to political issues where "the merits of the particular case" may take a higher than normal precedence.
two-party-preferred countThese figures indicate results where preferences have been distributed to the two major sides of politics – the Australian Labor Party and the Liberal and National Parties Coalition
cover notea document provided by an insurer as evidence of temporary insurance cover before a formal policy is issued.
address-in-replythe formal answer of each house to the speech made by the Queen, or the Governor-General as her representative, at the opening of each session of the Parliament
nominationUne nomination a un poste officieux faite par le Gouverneur en conseil(représentant de la Reine au Canada)
accusedPerson charged with a criminal offence.
fortress louisbourgThe large French fort first established on Île Royale (Cape Breton Island) in 1719 and destroyed by the British in 1758.
open government a principle of governme nt under which citizens are given maximum opportunity to know about government decisions and the reason for those decisions, and where citizens have the right to see most government papers and reports.
subordinate legislationSee regulations.
suspendto remove a member from a House and so prevent, for a time, his or her performing any duties, or being present in the House, usually in response to disorderly conduct.
parliamentary departmentsthe three departments which service the commonwealth Parliament, namely the departments of the Senate and the House of Representatives (chamber departments) and the Department of Parliamentary Services
credit contractA contract (q.v.) for deferred payment of a debt owed by one person or organisation to another.
adoptionapproval or acceptance; usually applied to amendments, resolutions or conference committee reports.
basqueA region along the western end of the border between Spain and France.
lawThe system of rules providing a basis for society to function harmoniously and efficiently
plebisciteA public vote to gauge public opinion on an issue (such as conscription) which does not affect the constitution nor is otherwise legally binding.   
partisanA supporter of a person, group, party, or cause, especially a person who shows a biased, emotional allegiance.
clear and present dangerA concept in American constitutional law to describe a situation where fundamental constitutional principles can be overlooked in exigent circumstances.
king george’s war(1744 – 1748) The war between France and Great Britain, known in Europe as the War of the Austrian Succession.
in orderin accord with the rules, in a correct form or style, as required by parliamentary procedure
findingThe determination of a factual issue as a result of judicial inquiry.
cripple the titlesee "Strike the Title".
mixed economyAn economic system which embraces some aspects of free enterprise together with elements of socialism.
principal authorthe member introducing and sponsoring a measure
certificate of titleA document prepared by the Titles Office which shows details of land registered under the Torrens system, particulars of the location, encumbrances (q.v.) and owners.
referendumA public vote with possibly legally binding consequences.
repealTo make a statute or part of a statute no longer have any legal effect.
m.p.A Member of Parliament, but in New South Wales this refers to Members of the Legislative Assembly.  Motion: A proposal put to the House, which is debated and voted upon.
princeTerm to denote the son of an hereditary monarch but also that of a non hereditary ruler in his or her own right
certificate of electiona document prepared by the official or body with the legal authority to do so,conferring upon a candidate the right to assume an elective office as a result of being elected to it.
statutory authoritya government agency set up by an Act of Parliament, more or less independent of day-to-day ministerial control, usually not bound by public service procedures to the same extent as ordinary departments, and which is responsible finally to Parliament.
prohibited nameA name which cannot be registered because it is obscene or offensive, impracticable or against the public interest.
realpolitikThe politics of realism
enactTo pass an Act of Parliament
parliamentary privilegeMembers of Parliament and of Provincial Legislatures have freedom of speech in the House and in its Committees, subject to its rules and orders
tyranny of the majorityA concept first coined in the nineteenth century by French writer Alexis de Tocqueville and also embraced by John Stuart Mill, who claimed that even democracies had limitations in that minority rights could be forfeited in the pursuit of popular causes
magistrateA judicial officer presiding over a Magistrates court.
impeachmentThe legislative equivalent of a criminal prosecution, where a high government official is subject, by a house of Parliament or Congress, to an investigation, indictment and subsequent trial.
summary offenceA minor offence heard and decided in a Magistrates' Court and not sent for trial before a judge and jury.
introductionthe filing of a measure for consideration by the Legislature
rescindto annul an action previously taken.
ultra viresBeyond the power
ayes lobbyThe lobby to the Government side of the Chamber
enduring powerA power of attorney (q.v.) or guardianship which continues to have effect even if the donor ceases to be mentally competent.
geologyThe study of the earth and its formation.
communitarianismThe concept of collective, rather than individual, ownership of all the nation's assets, as well as the duty by those able, to create and / or manage those assets.
house of representativesOne of the two houses of the federal Parliament of Australia, whose Members are elected on a population basis
parliamentary procedurerules for and methods of carrying out the business of a House of Parliament.
conference committeefive senators and five representatives, each appointed by their presiding officers, meet to resolve differences between two house versions of a bill
negativedSee Defeated/Negatived
ministerIf a minister introduces a bill to the house, it is listed in the government business section of the Notice Paper.
lesseeA person to whom property or goods are leased.
economical reformA reformist movement of the 1770s and 1780s designed to reduce the influence of the crown over the executive by reducing the number of posts to which the monarch could appoint his favourites, cutting back on patronage and making it harder for the monarch to grant pensions.
agendaa list of legislative measures, by number and short title, that the Majority Floor Leader plans to consider on a particular legislative day
proletariatTerm used in Marxist ideology to describe the working class who don't own property and whose only value is their labor.
status quoThe existing situation.
house of representatives the lower House of the federal Parliament of Australia elected on a population basis. 
paymaster of the forcesResponsible for the financing of the army, handling parliamentary grants used to fund forces
infantThe legal term for a person under 18, used particularly in family law and civil actions (q.v.).
commonwealth1
parliamentso called because it takes place on the motion to adjourn the House each day.  Amendment: An alteration to a Bill or Act
passagefavorable action on a measure before the Legislature.
affidavitDocument signed by the commissioners for oaths bearing the official seal of the commissioners for oaths of Ontario that states officially that a notice was published in the Canada Gazette, Part Ⅰ, on a specific date
legislative powerthe power to make and change laws; one of the three powers under the Constitution
daily sessioneach day's meeting.
regulationAn instrument made by the Governor in Council, under an authority stated in an Act, that identifies itself as being a regulation
gag a procedure for closing a discussion in a House when some members still wish to speak.
probationA non-custodial sentencing order (q.v.) that involves good behaviour and supervision by a probation officer under defined reporting conditions for a specified period.
demagogueA leader who gains popularity by appealing to prejudice and basic instincts
electTo pick one person from a group of several people by voting
calendar dayany day of the year, whether or not the Legislature is in session
totalitarianA government that wishes to subordinate the individual to the state by controlling not only all political and economic matters, but also by seeking to control the attitudes, values, and beliefs of its population.
liabilityLegal responsibility, e.g
hearinga meeting of a parliamentary committee for the purpose of taking oral evidence
notice of motionA proposal that informs the House of a motion before it happens in order to allow members of the House of prepare and be aware of the motion
validLegally binding (q.v.) or effective.
statutory authoritya government agency set up by an Act of Parliament, more or less independent of day-to-day ministerial control, usually not bound by public service procedures to the same extent as ordinary departments, and which is responsible finally to Parliament
repossessionThe taking possession of goods by a creditor from a debtor who has breached a term of a credit contract.
privateersThe officers and men of privately owned ships hired by a warring nation to capture enemy ships.
committee substituterevised version of legislation proposed for consideration or adopted by a committee.
first readingsee "Readings".
legislaturethe law making body of a country or a State.
budget statementA statement made by the Minister of Finance detailing the Government's economic policies and plans for spending public money in the coming year
conferencea meeting of representatives of both houses of Parliament to discuss an issue on which the houses do not agree
liberalpeople who generally like to reform current conditions
fixed term a term of office which cannot usually be shortened.
creditorA person or company to whom a debt is owed.
biasA pre-existing attitude or opinion that favours one side over another in a dispute.
cross-cultural exchange systemsA way of trading or exchanging items or goods between groups of people who have different cultural backgrounds (language and customs) and who most often live in different lands or regions.
exclusion clauseA clause in a contract which attempts to exclude or avoid liability (q.v.).
enrollmentthe preparation of an exact, accurate and official copy of a measure in its final form in the house of origin, with amendments adopted in the opposite house or in a conference committee and concurred in by the house of origin incorporated in the measure; the final and official copy includes the signatures of the presiding officers of both houses and is sent to the Governor for signature.
ex officio"by virtue of one's office"
democracyA form of rule in which the government is elected by, and accountable to, the people.
executive noteAn Executive Note sets out a brief statement of the purpose of a Scottish Statutory Instrument and provides information about its policy objective and policy implications
complainantA person who begins a prosecution against another in the Magistrates' Court, a plaintiff.
governmentA body of people responsible for governing a society, including introducing new laws and enforcing existing ones
own motionDecision by a body to take action, e.g
statutory instrumentA regulation, order, commission or other instrument authorized by an Act of Parliament.
paymaster-generalGovernment post created through the merger of the positions of Paymaster of the Forces, Treasurer of the Navy and Treasurer of Ordnance in 1836.
session law servicesa series of volumes containing all laws enacted during one year of the Legislature
precedentThe doctrine by which courts are obliged to follow past decisions.
deadlinea legislative day after which certain activities may not occur
statutory bodyAn organ of state established by an Act of Parliament - for example the South African Human Rights Commission.
judgment debtThe amount awarded to be paid under a court order.
"coming into force" dateThe date on which a legislative provision or an effect comes into force
out of orderThe term describing any proposal, action, or behaviour that is against the Standing Orders, or rules, of the House of Representatives.
testimonycomments made by individuals during a public hearing such as before a committee or board, and which becomes public record
community visitorA person with authority to monitor and report on the performance of mental health services and the welfare of their patients.
bowen houseThe building on Lambton Quay, Wellington, where some members of Parliament have their offices.
select committeea parliamentary committee established by either house or both houses to inquire into and report on a particular subject; a select committee ceases to exist when it has made its final report to the house or houses
solventAble to pay all debts when they are due.
conflict of interestAn issue which interferes with a Member's ability to perform his or her functions
offenderA person who commits an offence.
instruct(Of a solicitor) to request a barrister to present a particular case in court and to provide him/her with the information and material necessary to do so.
traffickingIn common law, movement from source to end user in the course of trade
substantiationProviding evidence to prove that an event took place, e.g
infringement noticeNotice showing that an offence (usually a driving offence) has been committed and the penalty to be paid (an "on-the-spot-fine").
cultural influencesA people may change some aspect of their way of life as a result of having come in contact with another group whose ideas or ways are different
retrospective operationLegislation has retrospective operation if, once it is made, it can at law be said that it took effect at a point in time before the time it was made.
scrutiny of legislation committeeA former statutory committee established under the Parliament of Queensland Act 2001 with responsibility to examine all Bills and subordinate legislation to consider the application of fundamental legislative principles and to consider the lawfulness of subordinate legislation
custodyControl; e.g
paper a report or document presented to a House of Parliament.
revoke a resolutionTo cancel the effect of a resolution previously adopted by the House.
restitutionGiving back what has been provided (under a contract), stolen, or seized to pay a debt.
traditionsA people’s way of life, practiced over a long period of time.
private actAn Act of local or limited application, such as an Act that applies only to a particular individual, organisation or locality.
constitutionThe set of rules that a country like Canada follows to work as a nation
intestateOne who dies without leaving a valid will
monopolyA situation where there is only one seller of a good or service due to either protection by legislation or the impracticality of other parties to enter the market.
sovereignThe Queen (or King) of New Zealand
votePart of an Appropriation Bill containing details of the authority to spend public money or incur expenses.
hearing of evidenceA select committee meeting during which members of the public may present information or opinions about an issue.
royal commissiona body formed by a person or persons chosen by a government to inquire into and report on a matter of public concern
qualified privilegeLimited protection against an action for defamation (q.v.) except where the person revealing the information did so out of malice (q.v.).
words of enactmentFormal words of legislative intent appearing at the beginning of an Act after the Long Title
evidenceInformation given in writing or in person to a select committee.
certiorariA form of writ (q.v.) by which actions for review of administrative decisions are commenced in the Supreme Court.
discoveryA procedure by which documents relevant to a civil (q.v.) action are exchanged between the parties before the case comes on for hearing.
lobbyista person who, voluntarily or for a fee, represents himself or herself, any individual, organization, corporation or entity before the Legislature.
implied termsTerms set out in legislation (q.v.) that are automatically part of a contract, without having to be stated in the contract document.
statutesa compilation of all enacted laws currently in effect.
bicameralismThis is the practice of having two separate legislative or parliamentary chambers in the making of laws
spent convictionA conviction for a minor criminal offence, which after a certain time without re-offending, is considered to no longer exist.
archaeologyThe detailed study of material evidence left behind in the earth by people who lived in the far past.
malapportionmentA term used to describe an electoral system where different electorates have large differences in the number of voters in them.
evictionThe action of recovering land or property from an occupier or tenant by legal proceedings.
proportional representationThe term that describes a group of electoral systems used to elect candidates in multi-member electorates
provable debtA debt that must be accepted for proportional payment from available funds by the trustee of a bankrupt (q.v.), and from which the bankrupt is released on discharge from bankruptcy.
conflict of interestA situation where a person's own interests, or a duty towards someone else, may affect the way they carry out a duty towards others.
administrator of the governmentThe Chief Justice when performing duties of the Governor-General, if that office is vacant or the Governor-General is for any reason unable to perform those duties (for example, if the Governor-General is overseas).
sovereigntyThe power of independent self-government.
executorThe person whose duty it is to carry the provisions of a will into effect
plaintiffPerson who initiates legal proceedings against another in a civil dispute (c.f
caveatA notice given to an appropriate officer ordering him or her not to take a certain step until the person giving the notice (the caveator) has had an opportunity to object (e.g
debateA discussion in which the arguments for and against a subject are presented according to specific rules
ballota piece of paper listing the candidates running for office
subclauseA numbered component of a clause, usually in a single sentence
exhausted votesThese are ballot papers which show no further valid preference for any candidate and must, therefore, be set aside from the count.
m-notes - marginal citationsThis annotation type is so called because it used to appear in the margin of the Queen's Printer's copy of primary legislation
legislatureA law-making body of elected representatives
sessionthe period during which the Legislature meets.
arbitrationA procedure for resolving disputes which involves less formality than a court hearing.
oathA pledge that statements made are true which is made with one's hand on the bible
readinga formal stage of the passage of a Bill through a House of Parliament.
portfoliothe area of responsibility or duties of a Minister in a Government; the department for which a Minister is responsible.
pursuant toAccording to, as directed by (an Act or Regulation).
trollingA troll is a slang term used to describe a person who deliberately posts inflammatory statements on a website with the intention of invoking an emotional response or being disruptive (their behaviour is called trolling)
maceA large, heavy, silver- and gold-covered staff that is a symbol of the power and authority of Parliament
alibiDefence to a criminal charge on the grounds that the accused was somewhere other than the scene of a crime when that crime was committed.
ombudsmanA concept, originally Swedish, where parliament appoints a person to act as an official watchdog over bureaucracy on behalf of the public
recallElectoral whereby an elected official, including the chief executive, can be recalled from office by the voters if there are sufficient signatures on a petition.
affidavitA written statement sworn on oath or affirmed before a person with authority to administer it, such as a justice of the Peace
first readingThe first stage in the progress of a Bill through a House of Parliament
representativea person who acts on behalf of others; a person elected to a law making body.
cooling off periodThe time during which a pur­chaser can withdraw from a contract after signing.
municipalitiesA local government area that is headed by a municipal council that deals with local issues.
statutory declarationA written statement of facts which the person making it signs and solemnly declares to be true before a person authorised to take declarations.
debt agreementAn arrangement for dealing with unpaid debts that is less formal and intrusive than bankruptcy (q.v.).
parliament buildingsParliament House, the Beehive, the Parliamentary Library, and Bowen House.
portfolio committeeA Parliamentary portfolio committee established under the Parliament of Queensland Act 2001 that is responsible for examining each Bill and item of subordinate legislation in its portfolio area to consider:
standing ordersthe permanent rules which govern the conduct of business in a House of Parliament.
judicial powerthe power to interpret or apply the law in particular cases
judicial activismA judicial philosophy advocating that courts are allowed to take an active role, not supported by existing law, to remedy alleged wrongs in society.
useful idiotDescription for people of influence who support a cause they fail to understand the full ramifications of, and end up being exploited by the leaders of that cause
negotiable instrumentA signed document by means of which money may be transferred from one person to another or through several hands, e.g
legally bindingAble to be enforced by law.
unanimous consentagreement to take certain procedural actions unless one or more members voices an objection.
inquiryan investigation by a parliamentary committee
volkstaat councilA temporary institution that was established to make recommendations regarding cultural self-determination and to explore the constitutional possibility of the establishment of an Afrikaner Volkstaat
impeachmenta procedure to remove from office certain public officials accused of mis-con-duct
explanatory memorandumAn Explanatory Memorandum (EM) sets out a brief statement of the purpose of a Statutory Instrument or Statutory Rules of Northern Ireland and provides information about its policy objective and policy implications
adaptingThrough time people learn the best possible way to make use of what their environment and surroundings have to offer.
amendmentAn alteration to a Bill, Act or Regulation.
budgetThe process for preparing and documenting the Government's economic policies and spending plans each year, resulting in the introduction of the main Appropriation Bill and the delivery of the Budget statement.
repealed/revokedRepeal is essentially the revocation, deletion, omission or reduction in scope of a piece of legislation
client stateA country that is economically or militarily dependent upon another, but not actually controlled politically by the patron state as in the case of a ‘puppet state'.
letter of demandA notice from a creditor that legal action will be taken if a debt is not paid.
sworn evidenceEvidence given under oath (q.v.).
joint resolutiona resolution passed by both houses of the Legislature which, if signed by the Governor, has the force and effect of law
judiciaryThe court system that upholds the laws passed by the legislative branch of the government while simultaneously providing a conflict resolution mechanism.
political partyan organized group of people with common values and goals, who try to get their candidates elected to office
challenge of voter registrationA registered voter of a county may challenge the registration of another registered voter in the same county
electoral roll reviewA house to house survey conducted by the Australian Electoral Commission in each division to check that electors are correctly enrolled.
introduceto bring in and formally present a bill to a house for future consideration
participationtaking part.
free voteA conscience vote.
apothecaryA person who studies the art and science of mixing medicines; also known in modern times as a pharmacist.
merchantable qualityReasonable quality, being in a good enough condition to be sold.
testatorA person who makes a will
coauthor slipa paper upon which a member indicates in writing an intention to Coauthor legislation
noticeThe formal process by which the House is notified of forthcoming business - proposals by Members to introduce Bills, or move motions
councilincluding carrying the Black Rod on sitting days and ceremonial occasions.
strict liabilityLiability incurred regardless of fault or ignorance of the law.
frontbench/er1
perpetratorPerson who committed the offence.
parliamentary counsel an office of legal officers who draft or prepare proposals for new laws. 
motionA subject for discussion in a legislature or a draft resolution awaiting approval as a resolution.
third readingthe final stage in the passage of a bill through a house of Parliament
public service commissionThis is a watchdog body which monitors the composition and efficiency of the state bureaucracy
negligenceA tort (q.v.) involving the breach of a duty of care (q.v.) resulting in loss or damage to another person.
recorded voteWhen the names of those voting for and against a motion are registered in the official record of the House or of one of its committees.
bloca group of legislators working together to achieve a common goal.
jurisdictionThe authority to enforce laws or pronounce legal judgments
citizen's arrestAn arrest by any person who is not a police officer or who does not have a warrant (q.v.) to arrest.
secretary of the senatean officer of the Senate (not a member) elected by the members to direct the staff and oversee the preparation of daily printing and general publications and the content of forms used by the Senate for various reports and procedures
intervention orderAn order made by police or on application to the Court ex parte regulating a defendant's behaviour towards a protected person
feniansMembers of a secret Irish revolutionary society formed to win independence from Great Britain.
question timea daily period of time in each house of the Parliament in which ministers are asked questions without notice concerning their responsibilities by other members
billA Bill introduced for the particular benefit of certain individuals, public corporations, private companies or local authorities
statutory instrumentIn general terms, a document made under the authority, directly or indirectly, of an Act
cabinet governmentA system of government in which a group of senior ministers collectively takes responsibility for implementing and administering government policy.
redistributionThe redrawing of electoral boundaries to ensure, as near as possible, an equal number of electors in each division.
standing committeeA permanent committee.
clerkThe chief executive of House administration
dischargedBills are removed from the notice paper by motion to discharge after it is decided that the Bill will not be proceeded with.
statuteAn item of primary legislation, such as an Act or Measure.
commonwealth parliamentary associationan association of parliaments of countries that make up the Commonwealth of Nations, such as Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, Papua New Guinea and India
informed consentAgreement given for something to be done, after the procedure has been fully explained so that the person understands the procedure and his or her rights to agree or refuse.
public participationPublic participation is the process whereby legislatures are accessible to members of the public so that they have the opportunity to voice their opinion
dictationSituation where a decision making body improperly allows itself to be directed by another person or body when making a decision.
justice of the peacePerson able to witness legal documents.
subordinate legislationA statutory instrument that under the operation of the Statutory Instruments Act 1992 is subordinate legislation
allegedSaid to be the case, but not yet proved.
knowingly concernedConsciously and deliber­ately involved in committing an offence.
crownThe formal term for the Sovereign (the Queen)
electorateSee electoral district.
instrumentA formal legal document in writing.
sanctionA penalty or punishment imposed on someone found guilty of an offence.
interest groupsGroups of businesses, associations and people with a common interest who ask MPs or Senators to speak for them and promote their interests.
non-parole periodThe minimum term a prisoner must serve before being eligible for parole (q.v.).
without prejudiceA statement or offer made on the basis that it will not affect a person's legal rights in later court action.
no confidence a means by which a House expresses dissatisfaction with the performance of a Government or a minister.
executive councilA formal meeting of the Governor-General with Ministers to make regulations and other administrative decisions.
litigation guardianAn adult through whom a person under 18 or a person with an intellectual disability can act in court, and who is liable for the costs of such action if unsuccessful.
acts interpretation actan Act of Parliament which gives guidance as to the meaning of expressions used in other acts and which gives details of procedures to be followed under other acts [Acts Interpretation Act 1901]
democracya form of government in which the supreme power is given to the people and exercised by them directly or indirectly through a system of representation
show causeA reversed onus of proof (q.v.) which applies to applications for bail for some drug offences.
code of practiceA set of guidelines for fair practice developed for a specific industry or occupation
briefingAn introductory explanation given to members of the legislature, usually in their committees, by a department official or specialist on the objectives and underlying principles of a bill or policy document.
division1
daily programa program or agenda, less formal than the Notice Paper, which shows the items of business with which the House of Representatives is expected to deal on a particular day, often called the Blue
point of ordera question to the Chair as to whether proceedings in a meeting are in accord with the rules or in the correct form
executive1
care and protection orderA court order resulting from a care and protection application with various options for supervised care of a child.
electoral rollThe list of names of people who are registered electors for an electoral district.
representative democracyIn modern times what is commonly know as a democracy, even though the people do not directly vote on actual issues and laws but surrender that right to their duly elected representatives.
bequeathTo dispose of personal property in a will, to make a bequest.
actiondisposition of any question before the Legislature.
clerk at the tableThe Clerk or other member of staff of the Office of the Clerk who sits at the Table of the House
first nationsReferring to the indigenous people of North America and their descendants who are not Inuit or Métis, this is a term used to determine ethnicity
defence1
parliamentary privilegeThe privilege while (physically) in Parliament that allows an MP to say anything without fear of prosecution for slander
legislatureThe arm of government whose function is to make, amend and repeal laws, as a parliament.
prohibitionAn order to stop decision-making proceedings in a lower court or tribunal.
fiscal yeara twelve-month period at the end of which accounts are finalized
regulationa law made under the authority of an Act of Parliament
start dateThe start date of a version is the earliest date for which it had effect to any extent or for any purpose.
budgetThe government’s plan for how it will collect and spend money each year.
electoral districtA district or area defined by the Representation Commission to be represented by a member of Parliament.
minutesthe official record of what has been decided by the Legislative Council.
cognate debatea debate in which two or more related matters are discussed at the same time
extractProduct offered by the Canada Gazette Directorate to its clients
attestation clauseA witnessing clause, for example, in a will
calendara list of legislation available to be heard by the Legislature
partyA group of persons with common political opinions and purposes, organized for gaining political influence and governmental control, and for directing government policy.
consumer leaseA contract (q.v.) for hire of goods by a person for a specified period and rental.
put the questionask for a decision on a motion: The Speaker put the question to the House.
recognisanceA bond (q.v.) the object of which is to secure the performance of an act by the person bound by it, e.g
petitionA written request or complaint made by one or more members of the public.
polityForm or process of civil government; organized society; the state.
seignioriesLarge portions of land belonging to a Seignior or Lord, and occupied by his workers.
wabanuwok(wah-BAH-new-wok) The people of Wabanahkik.
offenceA wrong prohibited by the criminal law.
electorateThe collective name given to all the people who have the right to vote.
declaratory orderA formal statement by a court to clarify a specific point of law for interested parties.
directions hearingA hearing held before the full hearing so that the court or tribunal can give directions to the parties about how the action should proceed.
lobbyingLobbying is when either individuals or a group tries to influence politicians or those with decision-making power to act in their favour
warranty(1) A minor clause in a contract, the remedy for breach of which is damages for any loss