The continuity of Australian government is thereby left contingent upon the actions of another country. If Britain were to become a republic, Australian government would be thrown into disarray. Second, a head of state in the Westminster system occupies a largely symbolic office, personifying the nation and seeking to represent its essential ethos and aspirations. Surely it is one of a country that has not completely outgrown its colonial status, that has not yet reached constitutional and cultural maturity, and that lacks the self-confidence of full nationhood. These arguments for an Australian head of state could be satisfied by inaugurating an indigenous monarchy.
Republican government is founded on popular sovereignty.
All public officers derive their authority from the people either directly through election or indirectly through appointment by those elected by the people. Australian government is already essentially republican in that its constitution was approved by the electors before enactment at Westminster and can be amended only with their consent in a referendum. In a hereditary monarchy, some people are born superior to others. Republican government also connotes compliance with the rule of law, implementation of the separation of powers, and protection of individual rights and freedoms. Neither is persuasive.