A Federal Republic

Australia's Constitutional System of Government

Brian Galligan

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Year: 1995
• Print ISBN: 9780521377461
• eBook ISBN: 9781139382342
• Topic: Politics & International Relations
• Subtopic: Politics
• Index: Politics & International Relations

This provocative book, first published in 1995, argues that Australia is already a federal republic rather than a constitutional monarchy. It argues that by adopting a federal constitution in 1901 Australians ensured their status as a sovereign people. While the book does not deny the parliamentary and monarchic elements of the Australian system, it calls for a positive reassessment of the Constitution. Brian Galligan forcefully argues that the Australian Constitution has primacy over the other political institutions of the nation. The book considers fundamental issues that arise in discussion of the Constitution and federalism, including the role of the Senate, the possibility of a bill of rights, the way the High Court fits into the current system and the nature of governmental relations. This book will overturn the orthodoxies of much informed opinion and will challenge republicans and monarchists alike. Brian Galligan's unique perspective as a political scientist throws light on many aspects of federalism and will stimulate wide debate.

Table of contents

• Cover
• Frontmatter
• Contents
• Tables and figures
• Preface
• Dedication
• Introduction
• A federal republic
• Federal theory and Australian federalism
• The Senate and responsible government
• Labor and the Australian Constitution
• The referendum process
• The protection of rights
• The High Court and the Constitution
• Intergovernmental relations and new federalism
• Fiscal federalism
• Towards and beyond 2001
• Bibliography
• Index