cam . # .

The problem with the Au Constitution: is that is crap in constitutional terms, it is hard to modify (referendums are near impossible to pass) and it has become so far removed from its original/explicit meaning that a passing read from a citizen does not convey the breadth of Australian government. Much of the constitution\'s meaning is tied up not in the document itself, but in High Court rulings.

One of the problems with the bearded men was a lack of constitutional writing skills. Ingless Clark did the drafting but the likes of Griffiths showed a lack of understanding by making the judicial subservant to the legislature, which had to be fought to be put back to it original form of separation of powers.

One of the purposes of the CFC is to promote constitution writing in the citizenry. This has benefits beyond the federal constitution, Queensland recently collapsed their bills/act into a single constitution and IIRC WA and Tas still do not have a formal constitution either. So the promotion of constitutional skills, with a bit of fun alaong the way is civicly important IMNSHO.

Jefferson believed constitution\'s should be sunsetted every 25 years, so each succeeding generation can rewrite government to be a reflection of themselves. I agree. The reason republicanism has such traction is that our constitution is a 16thC document with an elected upper house thrown in. Many of the errors, skewings and inefficiencies in our system can be traced to their constitutional origins.

So I believe constitutional writing skills and a deep understanding of constitutional issues are necessary for Australian republicans.

cam