Until the 1960s, the federal Labor party was formally pledged to the abolition of federalism and its replacement by a system in which the central government would have plenary powers and the states only delegated administrative responsibilities. This article examines how the ALP's platform was progressively changed during the 1960s and 1970s. The modification of Labor's commitment to abolish federalism and the Senate was due partly to a more realistic sense of what was feasible and partly to a more sophisticated approach towards working the existing system. But, as well, Labor's social and economic goals had been moderated to ones that were congenial to middle Australia and private enterprise. Progressive changes to Labor's platform were an important precondition for the Whitlam government's 'new federalism' in the 1970s, and the Hawke government's current initiative of 'closer partnership with the states' for reforming the practical working of the federal system.
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.
These papers examine current Australian federalism from the perspectives of an academic and a practitioner. Both acknowledge the opportunities arising from the current White Paper process, as well as challenges in the face of substantial cuts of proposed funding from the Commonwealth to the States. They insist upon the need for renewed commitment to the idea of federalism, and the importance of sustainable fiscal arrangements within the federation.
Challenges in Reforming Australian federalism reminds us of the kind of federalism operative in Australia -concurrent, not coordinate -and develops reform proposals accordingly. TenSteps to a Better Federation offers a range of ideas from a former state premier, drawing on his experience as both a participant at Council of Australian Government (COAG) and, later, Chair of the COAG Reform Council.
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