The Australian Constitution is the fundamental law that establishes the political and legal framework for the governance of Australia. It is a written constitution that sets up Australia as a federation under a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. The Constitution defines the structure and powers of the federal government, including the Parliament, the Executive, and the Judiciary. It was drafted by representatives of the six Australian colonies in the 1890s, approved by referendums, and enacted into law by the UK Parliament, coming into effect on January 1, 1901. The document consists of eight chapters and 128 sections, covering how Parliament works, the division of powers between the federal government and states, the role of the High Court, and how the Constitution can be amended by referendum. The Constitution provides the legal foundation for how laws are made and power is distributed in Australia. It outlines a system of checks and balances among the legislature, executive, and judiciary to prevent abuse of power. It also guarantees certain rights such as freedom of religion and the right to a trial by jury for federal offenses, though unlike some other countries, it does not have a comprehensive bill of rights. To change the Constitution, proposals must be approved by a "double majority" in a national referendum, meaning a majority of voters overall and a majority in a majority of states must agree. The Constitution is central to Australia's democratic system, shaping government operations and protecting citizens' rights under the rule of law.