The legislature: an introduction

Within any western democratic society there will be what is known as 'the rule of law'. This concept is the foundation for a democracy, stating that no one or institution is above the law; the law applies to everyone. In this the Australian government, and many other nations, have separate 'arms' of government. These arms are the Legislature (or the general parliament), Executive (the government ministers/cabinet), and the judiciary (the courts). 

The legislature is the arm of government that allows such legal systems to operate, the parliament administering and implementing laws that regulate society. 

There can be two types of parliament; a unicameral or bicameral system. In a unicameral system there is only one 'house' of parliament where the laws are produced. In a bicameral system there are two houses of parliament( a lower house, and an upper house). In order for a law (more correctly a 'bill') to become law in a bicameral system, it must pass through both houses of parliament, providing certain checks and balances. In Australia this system was a key part in the deal of federation where each state would be represented as to provide checks and balances. The problem with such a system is that it can be costly to administer, a unicameral system being just as effective at a lesser price.

This is only a brief overview, and does not cover half of what the legislature stands for and conducts. Please comment below to add information or ask a question.