"I don't like Nelson, but not sure he is an extremist? he was just as likely an ALP member, both parties wooed him."
For me he is quite tainted by the war in Iraq...he has even admitted that securing the world's oil supply is one of the Federal Government's considerations re decisions on how long to keep our troops in Iraq....so much for the spin that their intention was to free the Iraquis from a 'dreadful tyrant' etc etc etc.
"As for Republic model, I liked the idea of Parliament appointing the head of state, since it would mean there wouldn't be a political campaign...I mean it is a figurehead only....we don't have popular elections for the Governor General, nor should we."
The Governor General is more than just a figurehead if he can sack an elected government don't you think? Currently the Governor General represents the Queen so doesn't need to be elected?
I think Australians have to think very carefully about the Republican model they adopt....and I'm not that keen on increasing the power of politicians. The Queen is presumably an 'independent/disinterested party' which politicians are not...the only avenue for such necessary independence is the people en masse really in my opinion.