be truly independent, the ties with England would need to be severed. (Mack, K., in Corkery et.al 1998, p.34) One view would be to simply abolish the Monarchy. (Winterton, G., in Stephenson et.al 1994, p.17) However, others might say that our current system is already mostly Republican with the only Monarchial elements remaining being the concentration of Royal powers in the Ministry. (http://www.aph.gov.au/senate/general/republic.htm#aussie)In any event, severing the Royal ties is not that easy, as amendments to the Australian Constitution Acts 1900(U.K) can only be passed in Parliament in accordance with section 128. (Chisholm et.al 1997, p.61)Section 128 prescribes that changes can only be implemented by referendum. To hold a referendum a Bill needs to be passed through the Commonwealth Parliament to authorize it. Once authorized, a majority of votes, as well as a majority of States is required. This dual criterion has proven difficult to achieve, with only eight referendums being successful since Federation. (Brown et.al 2000, p.p. 68-69 and Chisholm et.al 1997, p.64)If a referendum is successful, the Governor-General will need to assent to the Bill to become an Act. Moreover, since the referendum effectively abolishes the Office of the Governor-General, alternative arrangements could be needed to be made to proclaim a new system of government. (Brown et.al 2000,p.69)If Australia is to become a Republic, issues pertaining to appointment, dismissal and powers to be vested in the Head of State needs to be defined.One option for appointing the Head of State would be by a vote of the people. This however could undermine political neutrality, which would be important to maintain, to promote National cohesion. To avoid a political appointment an election of a super-majority of both houses of Parliament, which would require the agreeance of both parties could be considered. (Winterton, G., in Stephenson et.al1994, p.p 22-23)The next issue...
