Western Australia (WA) has a unique and evolving government structure, combining elements of self-government with federal oversight. Granted self-government in 1890, the state’s Parliament is based in Perth and operates with a bicameral system, consisting of the Legislative Assembly (lower house) and the Legislative Council (upper house). The Legislative Assembly comprises 59 members, while the Legislative Council has 36 members. Voting is compulsory for all citizens over the age of 18, ensuring broad civic participation in the state's democratic processes.

Following the federation of the Australian colonies in 1901, Western Australia became a state within the Australian federation. This change involved ceding certain powers to the Commonwealth (Federal) government, as outlined in the Australian Constitution. While the Commonwealth now holds significant influence, particularly in areas like taxation and financial distribution, the state retains control over powers not specifically granted to the federal government. Over time, however, the Commonwealth’s role has grown, largely due to its broad interpretation of its constitutional powers, leading to a shift in the balance of federalism within the nation.

Although the monarch of Australia, currently King Charles III, remains the ceremonial sovereign of Western Australia, executive power is effectively held by the state’s Premier and the ministers of the governing party. The Governor of Western Australia, currently Chris Dawson, serves as the monarch's representative, but the day-to-day governance is in the hands of the Premier and their Cabinet. Roger Cook became the Premier of Western Australia in 2023 after the resignation of Mark McGowan, leading the state with the support of the majority party in the Legislative Assembly.

The government of Western Australia reflects the state’s historical journey from self-government to its current place within Australia’s federal structure, combining elements of local authority with the broader powers of the Commonwealth. This balance of governance allows WA to maintain autonomy in key areas while adapting to the evolving dynamics of the national political landscape.