Premier of Queensland facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Premier of Queensland |
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| Style | The Honourable |
| Member of | Cabinet of Queensland |
| Appointer | Governor of Queensland |
| Term length | At the Governor's pleasure |
| Inaugural holder | Robert Herbert |
| Formation | 10 December 1859 |
| Salary | $380,000 per annum |
| Website | www.thepremier.qld.gov.au |
The Premier of Queensland is the main leader of the government in Queensland, Australia. Think of the Premier as doing a similar job for the state of Queensland as the Prime Minister of Australia does for the whole country.
The Queen is the official head of state, but her power in Queensland is carried out by the Governor of Queensland. The Governor always follows the advice given by the Premier. The person who is currently the Premier of Queensland is Annastacia Palaszczuk.
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What Does the Premier Do?
The Premier leads the government and makes important decisions for Queensland. They work with a team of ministers, called the Cabinet of Queensland, to manage different areas like health, education, and transport. The Premier is also the main spokesperson for the state.
How the Premier is Chosen
Queensland's government works using a system called the Westminster system. This means that the government is formed by the political party that wins the most seats in an election.
After an election, the State Governor officially appoints the leader of the winning party as the Premier. This leader must have the support of most of the elected members in the Legislative Assembly. If the Premier loses this support, either because their party loses an election or their own party members no longer back them, they must resign.
Queensland's Parliament
Unlike some other Australian states, Queensland has only one elected house in its parliament. This single house is called the Legislative Assembly. This is different from a bicameral system, which has two houses. Having just one house means that laws are debated and passed in this single assembly.
A Bit of History
Queensland used to be a British colony. In those early days, the Governor held most of the power. However, in 1859, Britain allowed Queensland to have its own parliament. This was a big step! From that point on, the power shifted from the Governor to the Premier, giving Queensland more control over its own affairs.
