There are too many reasons why we should not become a Republic. The main one being that if the pollies want it then it must be good for them. And history has shown us, if its good for them its bad for us. They will re-write the constitution so as to further their power or control over us. As we are now I like the idea that when the mongrels have over-stepped the line and been caught with their hands in the cookie jar, we can go running to 'mummy', the Queen, and the bastards can't get away. On the other hand as a Republic they just flob us off with just another lot of BS. No we already tried the Republic thing and we knocked it back so lets not even think about going there again until we find some honest people to do our bidding.

Well said, ALTRAV!

We know why Bill Shortlan does not want a plebiscite for same sex marriage.
He suspects it would fail.
However for a republic, he must think it would get up.

Got my doubts about a republic, especially for an elected President.
Elect a President and you get a politician !
Do you reckon a Labour president would have sacked Gough Whitlam ?
There is your answer to elected Presidents.

Also more importantly, if you elect the President you generate another power centre.
That is just setting up a time bomb. Watch other republics.