How Australia's Referendum Process Works

Australian referendums amend the Constitution and require a double majority:

• A majority of voters nationwide
• A majority of voters in a majority of states (at least 4 of 6)

Process: Parliament passes a bill by absolute majority; the Governor-General sets a date; voters answer yes/no. Since 1901, 44 referendums have been held; only 8 succeeded. The high threshold ensures only widely supported changes pass.