In a nation of just around 21 million people, and the most over-governed one at that, save one exception, I see no such case.
Of course the states are going to argue, for more decentralization, but centralize power in their own capital cities.
And at a cost to the taxpayer, of 70 billions per and rising, before any legislature so much as sits.
Some of the cities in other parts of the world are nearly as big as Australia, and administered by a single council!
We just don't need all these bureaucrats, and double handling of taxpayers funds, for a 30% admin fee?
Health and education could be directly funded, and under more regional autonomy, which would save the taxpayer the 30% state admin fee, which could be then used to improve coal face outcomes.
Around the turn of the last century, when steam trains and telegraphs were all,the go, and the latest in technology; this case could be put!
However, we can now communicate, at the speed of light, and face to face, where that is appropriate! And we can fly to any Australian destination in just hours, rather than the months we used to sometimes need!
We need far less govt and the deharmonised red tape that seems to be part of the big frogs in little puddles, that are state governments!?
We need far less govt, and their is patently no need for an opposition in any house, given the divergence of opinion in caucus or cabinet.
We just need to legislate for complete freedom to vote how you chose in any house, rather than at the whim or caprice of one or two power brokers, etc!
If the states are to continue to have a role, then it should be a very reduced one, and controlled by a single administrator, in a winner takes all election.
Just that much pragmatism, would save the taxpayer at least 35 billion and rising per.
We need real reform, not this patent self serving, empire building rubbish!
Bah Humbug!
Rhrosty.

What a silly idea. 9 new tax offices, new laws for moving between states etc. Only a "progressive" could think of something that will employ thousands of bureaucrats for no benefit.

A good idea Grant, but obviously there is a lot more to regional autonomy than just taxation. Authority for most laws that can apply locally such as education, health, law and order, the economy also have to be taken away from the federal govt. And the grants power under Section 96 of the C. would DEFINITELY have to go.

The very fact of doing this would unquestionably give a big boost to democracy in Australia: with all states then offering their very own, different, brand of legal, social and economic governance, instead of voting in the ballot box in federal elections and most times losing, people could now vote with their feet and win.