In Australia, the form of government is a federal parliamentary constitutional monarchy. In Australia, legislative power rests with a parliament. The head of government is Elizabeth II. A country's governmental structure determines the way laws are written, approved and interpreted. The type of government determines the way elections are held as well as the country's system of policing its citizens. The term of office of the head of state in Australia lasts until the next succession. The length of a head of state's tenure directly affects the power and influence of the executive branch. A longer term gives the head of state more authority. The Global Peace Index (GPI) for Australia is 1.329. Due to the strong presence of the law enforcement authorities and the high level of social responsibility, Australia is very safe in international comparison. The Strength of Legal Rights Index for Australia is 11. Overall it is considered quite strong - bankruptcy and collateral laws can protect the rights of borrowers and lenders fairly well; Credit information is plentiful and easily accessible.

Government
In Australia, the head of government is Elizabeth II. Australia's system of government is a federal parliamentary constitutional monarchy. In Australia, legislative power rests with a parliament; This is a bicameral legislative body and therefore a bicameral parliament. According to the World Bank Group, Australia's Government Effectiveness Index is 1.59. This shows that the Australian government is very effective. Citizens enjoy highly efficient social, public and public services and general morale in Australia is high. State action is efficient and swift, making dangerous situations highly unlikely.

Unions and alliances
This section provides a list of unions to which Australia is affiliated.

Australia is a member of the United Nations (UN). Australia is a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO). Australia is a member of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Australia is a member of the International Monetary Fun (IMF). To find out more about when Australia became a member of these unions and what additional political unions and alliances Australia is a member of, click Australia's membership of international unions.

Freedom in Australia
In terms of political and civil liberties, Australia is number 1. Citizens in Australia experience total freedom. The majority of countries where citizens enjoy wide civil liberties and political liberties are representative democracies, where officials are directly elected by the citizens to advocate for their needs and wants. Free countries are often backed by healthy economies and well-functioning governments.