Tasmania

Abstract

The constitution of Tasmania was settled by the local Act of 18 Vict. No. 17. By this Act a Legislative Council and a House of Assembly are constituted, called the ‘Parliament of Van Diemen’s Land.’ The Legislative Council is composed of fifteen members, elected by all natural born or naturalised subjects of the Crown who possess either a 50l. freehold, or hold a commission in the army or navy, or have a degree of some university, or are in holy orders. The House of Assembly consists of thirty members, elected by 10l. householders, or freeholders, and all subjects holding a commission, or possessing a degree, or in holy orders. The legislative authority rests in both Houses united; while the executive power is vested in a governor appointed by the Crown.