great point of contention Davisite. as I understand the reasoning is so that now coming Gov can remove such a body, as, for example, Abbott did with Gillard's legacy on GHG emissions.
I personally disagree with going straight to a referendum as I believe on this time scale it will fail. I would prefer to see a voice legislated for 2 terms of Gov, 5-6 years, with a thorough review before each election to find flaws and rectify developing problems, then have a referendum on making such a consultation body enshrined in the constitution.
it truly needs a trial run to convince Aussie voters that it will benefit the nation and first Aussies with minimal cost.
but to have a referendum in 18 months looks to me to be a plan for failure.
