The Australian political landscape is characterized by a parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy. The country has a federal system, meaning power is divided between the national government and six states, along with two territories. The two major political parties are the Liberal Party of Australia and the Australian Labor Party, with smaller parties like the Greens and One Nation also playing significant roles. Elections are held at both federal and state levels, with citizens voting for representatives in the House of Representatives and the Senate. The Prime Minister, typically the leader of the majority party in the House, heads the government. Australia also has a strong tradition of compulsory voting, ensuring high voter participation.