is how the new Head of State would be removed from Office. Currently the Queen, on the advice of the Prime Minister can recall the Governor-General. (Winterton et.al 1986, p.115) However, with the abolishment of the Monarchy, the options remaining would be dismissal by a joint sitting of Parliament, or it can be a responsibility of the government of the day. (Brown et.al 2000, p.54)Finally, should the new Head of State have the same role as the Governor-General, which includes ceremonial duties, conferring powers and acting on the advice of the government? Moreover, would they have reserve powers? Reserve powers would enable the Head of State to be the ultimate Constitutional guardian, but it would also increase the opportunity for abusing these powers. On the other hand, if reserve powers were not given, then the government would be less flexible. Furthermore, any reserve powers afforded would need to be clearly defined. (Winterton, G., in Stephenson et.al 1994, p.p. 20-21)Another important issue that would need consideration in Australia becoming a Republic is the impact a Republican Commonwealth would have on the States.The question arises if the States can remain Monarchial with a Republican Commonwealth. If not they will need to amend their Constitutions to convert to a State Republic. (Carney et.al 1994, p.p. 183-184)Amendments to State Constitutions can occur in two ways. The first is pursuant too Section 15(1) of the Australia Acts, which requires concurrence of all States. If one State Parliament disagrees, then amendments can only be made under Section 15(3). This requires changes to the Commonwealth Constitution by Section 128, conferring the power to make the necessary amendments to the Australia Acts on the Commonwealth Parliaments. (Ibid.) In other words, Section 128 can be used to force the States to change their system of government. (Carney et.al 1994, p.2000)As previously mentioned, speculating on Australia becoming a...
