The legislature is made of two elements: the lieutenant governor (representing the King of Canada),[1] and the Legislative Assembly of Alberta.

The legislature has existed since Alberta was formed out of part of the North-West Territories in 1905.

Like the Canadian federal government, Alberta uses a Westminster-style parliamentary government, in which members are sent to the Legislative Assembly after general elections and the lieutenant governor appoints the person who can command a majority of the members of the Assembly, typically the leader of the party with the most seats, as Premier of Alberta.

The premier then recommends the appointment of the Executive Council of Alberta.

For previous legislatures, see List of Northwest Territories Legislative Assemblies.