Democracy: Choosing Australia's Republic

By: Richard McGarvie

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Synopsis: It is of vital importance to the future of Australia's democracy and federation that the right decision be made on the republic issue. This is not a simple question of choosing between a monarchy and a republic, between the Queen and an Australian head of state, though that choice does need to be made. But before Australians can make that choice, they need a proper understanding of our present system, and they must be offered a republic that preserves the quality of democracy of that system, not one that would degrade it. In Democracy, Richard McGarvie explains the evolution of our system of government, the safeguards provided by the roles of the governor-general and state governors, and why the reserve powers and the constitutional conventions are so important. McGarvie's meticulous examination of the proposed models for a republic, including the Turnbull model proposed in the November 1999 referendum question, exposes the dangers in choosing the wrong republic. He warns that the method of appointment and dismissal of the head of state are crucial to the maintenance of our democracy. If Australia does choose to become a republic, there is a safe way to proceed. Democracy shows the way.