what is residual powers in australia

Residual powers, also known as residual powers of government, refer to the powers that are not specifically assigned to the states or territories, nor granted to the federal government under the Australian Constitution. These powers are retained by the states and territories as residual powers.

In Australia, the Constitution defines the division of powers between the federal government and the states. The federal government is granted specific powers in areas such as defense, currency, trade, and immigration, while the states have control over areas such as education, healthcare, and transport.

Any powers that are not explicitly given to the federal government or the states are considered to be residual powers, which means they remain with the states. This allows the states to have a certain level of autonomy and authority in areas not covered by the federal government.

Residual powers are intended to ensure a balance of power between the federal government and the states in Australia's federal system. It allows the states to make decisions and legislate on issues that are relevant to their specific jurisdictions and interests.