The power of local governments is controlled by Acts of State Parliament such as the Local Government Acts. Large but less populated country areas, with a number of small towns and large rural areas, are usually shires with a Shire Council based in one of the larger towns. The bigger country centres such as Bathurst or Albury have city or municipal councils. The Sydney area is divided into about 35 cities, municipalities or shires, each with its own local council.
Local Government areas vary greatly in size and character. Each state has its own constitution setting out its system of government. Major State responsibilities include schools, hospitals, conservation and environment, roads, railways and public transport, public works, agriculture and fishing, industrial relations, community services, sport and recreation, consumer affairs, police, prisons and emergency services. However, sometimes both levels are involved. Under the Australian Constitution, the States are responsible for everything not listed as a Federal responsibility. The Federal Government is also involved, mainly through funding, in many things largely carried out by the States, such as health, education, environmental issues, industrial relations, etc. Its areas of responsibility are stated in the Australian Constitution and include defence and foreign affairs trade, commerce and currency immigration postal services, telecommunications and broadcasting air travel most social services and pensions. The Federal or Commonwealth Government is responsible for the conduct of national affairs.
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