Senate (Australian Senate)

The Australian Senate is one part of the country's federal Parliament, providing equal representation for each state regardless of population. It consists of 76 senators: 12 from each of the six states and 2 from each of the two territories. Senators review, amend, and approve legislation passed by the lower house (House of Representatives). They also represent regional interests and serve six-year terms, with half of the Senate elected every three years. The Senate acts as a check on the government, ensuring diverse regional perspectives are considered in national decision-making.