The 1975 dismissal is a wonderful case study in both the importance of Government checks and balances as well as the requirement to ensure they are used correctly, so that past mistakes won't be repeated. It's also why Australians even today get a little nervous when one party controls the senate alone.

But rage? No. I have nobody to rage at.

[–] No1@aussie.zone 5 points 2 weeks ago* (last edited 2 weeks ago) (1 children)

the importance of Government checks and balances

Watching the US has been interesting and somewhat terrifying at the same time.

How much of our own democracy and institutions here rely on people acting in good faith, and consistent with precedents or tradition? If and/or when those are broken, are there actually any real laws? Is there anyone to prosecute or enforce those laws?

[–] dockedatthewrongworf@aussie.zone 2 points 2 weeks ago

I think it does somewhat speak for itself that we've had so few constitutional crises that the Whitlam dismissal remains as common knowledge as it does. It's not perfect but our government does appear to uphold tradition and precedent.

The mostly apolitical nature of the GG and the judiciary has helped us against bad actors who would abuse the powers of government. I could only imagine the damage that could occur if we had elections for our GG. Imagine someone like Clive Palmer getting the role and being expected to not abuse it.