Irresponsible government? The Australian Senate as institutional singularity in the age of political party fragmentation

Whereas second chambers in most Westminster-Systems tend to be subject of reform or abolition efforts, the Australian Senate managed to defend its outstanding strong position within Australia's system of government. Australian exceptionalism of its federal bicameralism roots in its combination of a "strong" second chamber elected by proportional representation with a first chamber elected through a majority formula ("alternative vote") following the British constitutional pattern. Holding the balance of power, minor parties and independent Senators use their representation in the Senate to gain political influence. Simultaneously, rising party fragmentation in the Senate requires the government to use coalitions depending on the issue in order to obtain support for their legislative measures. Recent developments in Australian climate policy show how consensual decision-making and interparty negotiation are incorporated in a system originally based on majority rule. While the government accepted the power of the Senate and the delay of its legislative program, the Senate acknowledged executive supremacy over budget and supply legislation in exchange.