Dear Sense,

Essentially, Australia is independent.

But you're right - the only tie to the UK
is the Queen.

And while that remains - even though legally - we no longer
have to appeal to the Privy Council in the UK. Our highest
court now (since 1986) is the High Court of Australia and there is no appeal beyond that. We still are part of the Commonwealth.

Banjo,

We're in the midst of the Centenary of World War One until 2018. This Centenary of WW1 seems to be coinciding with a rise in popularity of the Monarchy in Australia. Thus, Monarchists are seemingly at the height of their popularity and power in 2015 whilst we celebrate this centenary. You must also take into consideration that Tony Abbott is our PM. Tony Abbott has proven himself to be the most Monarchist Prime Minister since Menzies. These are the two threads running through my argument.

Don't get me wrong, I like Monarchists very much, they are extremely good people, I would have a cup of tea with any of them on any day, they have their hearts in the right place, but their loyalties seem too often to lay abroad. But, I must say do admire Monarchists for their devotion to, and their protection of the Australian Constitution. Protecting and upholding our Constitution should be placed in all oaths, as it is the highest law in the land. I also admire both Monarchists and Republicans for their formal politeness and courtesy whilst conducting themselves in public forums