The Austrian Parliament is the legislative body of Austria, responsible for passing laws and overseeing government activity. It may also be referred to as the Nationalrat, as this is the name given to the lower house of the Parliament. The upper house, or Bundesrat, is also a synonym for the Austrian Parliament, as it is a vital part of the legislative process. Other synonyms for the Austrian Parliament include the Österreichische Nationalversammlung and the Parlament der Republik. Regardless of the name used, the Austrian Parliament is one of the most important institutions in the country, shaping its political and social landscape.