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I originally supported the idea of an Australian republic, hoping that our bloated forms of government at all levels would become streamlined and more efficient.
Unfortunately none of the pollies wanted to see their numbers reduced and their bureaucracies cut, and we were offered a president elected by parliament from a list of candidates supplied to parliament. You only have to look at most of the recent Australians of the Year to see what we might wind up with!
The Australian public saw it for exactly for what it is-just another job for the boys, and if the republican movement cannot come up something better than that, then they will be doomed to failure again.[/QUOTE]
Under the present arrangements, the PM, alone, selects the GG....that is, he sends a list of 3 names to the Queen with a clear indication as to which is the preferred candidate and the Queen duly appoints that person.
The simplest way to do this, is for the PM of the day appoint the head of state, but in consultation and in agreement with the leader of the opposition. That way, we are sure to get someone who is acceptable to both sides. Another method, would be for a council of eminent Australians to choose the head of state. The composition of such a council would need to be determined at a future date after sufficient community debate on the issue.
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