Territory government

There are ten Australian territories outside the borders of the states. Two mainland territories, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and the Northern Territory have been granted a limited right of self-government by the federal government. In these territories, a range of governmental matters are now handled by a locally-elected parliament. Outside of government, the ACT and the Northern Territory are often treated like states because of their significant population sizes. Norfolk Island was previously self-governed, but following the Norfolk Island Legislation Amendment Bill 2015, an elected Regional Council will be established. The Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development has more information on the Norfolk Island reform.

Seven territories are governed only by Commonwealth law, usually through an Australian Government-appointed Administrator. They are:

• Ashmore and Cartier Islands

• Australian Antarctic Territory

• Christmas Island

• Cocos (Keeling) Islands

• Coral Sea Islands

• Jervis Bay Territory

• Territory of Heard Island and McDonald Islands 

Conflict of laws

If the laws of a state ever conflict with the laws of the Commonwealth of Australia, the Constitution says that Commonwealth law is to be followed. The Australian federal judiciary may also have the power to review decisions by a state judiciary.