Some people may have been puzzled by last weekend's referendum result in Australia.
This debate regarding a republic in Australia, was fuelled by a select group, namely the Australian Republican Movement (ARM), which urged that Australia become a republic.
In reality, the model, proposed by the ARM, that enabled the politicians to elect the head of state was never embraced by Australia. This model was selected with a majority of only a single vote at a constitutional convention where the ARM practically hijacked the debate.
While Australians are in general agreement that the British monarchy has no role to play, they also realise that the constitutional system, adapted from the Westminster system, actually protects democracy, as it provides the required checks and balances to promote stable government.
This is one of the primary reasons for the rapid growth of the multi-cultural society that exists there today.
There is no real drive for change, thus until a viable alternative is presented, why move to a republic and risk the freedom that Australia currently enjoys? MARCUS ROSE Sydney, Australia
