Responsible Government and the Australian Constitution: A Government for a Sovereign People

This book explores the concept of responsible government in the Australian Constitution, examining the historical context and constitutional ideas that informed the framers' views. It develops a theory of responsible government and its implications for interpreting the Constitution and modern government in Australia. It fills a significant gap in our understanding of the intellectual background of the Constitution and contributes to global debates on constitutional interpretation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 15 June 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This comprehensive book delves into the concept of responsible government within the framework of the Australian Constitution. It provides a detailed exploration of the historical backdrop that led to the integration of responsible government into the Constitution, examining the political history and constitutional ideas that influenced the perspectives of the framers. By drawing upon this rich history, the book develops a theoretical framework of responsible government and examines its profound implications for interpreting the Constitution and shaping the modern government structure in Australia.

One of the key strengths of this book is its ability to fill a significant gap in our understanding of the intellectual foundations of the Australian Constitution. It sheds light on the constitutional ideas that have shaped the text and structure of the Constitution, contributing to global discussions on constitutional interpretation. By employing a rigorous historical approach, the book demonstrates how the study of history can provide fresh insights into constitutions without being bound by the intentions of the founders.

The book is organized into several chapters, each dedicated to exploring different aspects of responsible government and its role in the Australian Constitution. The first chapter provides an overview of the historical context, tracing the development of responsible government in Australia and its significance in the nation's political landscape. The second chapter delves into the political history and constitutional ideas that informed the framers' views on responsible government. It examines the influence of British political thought, the concept of liberal democracy, and the Australian colonial experience on the shaping of the Constitution.

In the subsequent chapters, the book explores the theoretical foundations of responsible government and its implications for interpreting the Constitution. It examines the role of the executive branch, the legislature, and the judiciary in ensuring responsible government and promoting the rule of law. The book also discusses the importance of accountability, transparency, and public participation in the governance process.

Throughout the book, the authors employ a rigorous and analytical approach, drawing upon a wide range of primary sources and scholarly literature. They provide a comprehensive analysis of the historical, political, and constitutional dimensions of responsible government, offering insights that are both insightful and thought-provoking.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable contribution to the field of constitutional law and politics. It provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration of responsible government within the Australian Constitution, shedding light on the historical, political, and constitutional ideas that have shaped the nation's governance structure. By employing a rigorous historical approach, the book offers novel interpretations of the Constitution that are relevant to contemporary debates and challenges. It is a must-read for scholars, students, and anyone interested in understanding the Australian Constitution and the principles of responsible government.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509955794