Focus Voting- Constitutional Amendments

  In order to make “Focus Voting” legally binding on Parliament it will be necessary to make some amendments to the Constitution which can only be done through a referendum.

  The changes are designed to give Parliament the OPTION on whether to refer questions to the people for determination.

It does not weaken or lessen Parliaments ability to vote on questions, as it currently exists.

  However, if Parliament does decide to refer questions to the people then the result will be binding on both Houses of Parliament.

The following two amendments are an indication reflecting the INTENT of the amendments. 

  The final amendments could be different in wording and with reference to clauses within the Constitution.

40 (i) The House of Representatives may refer questions arising in the house under section 40 of this constitution directly to the people of the Commonwealth, which shall be determined by a majority of votes by the people of the Commonwealth and such result will be as if the House of Representatives has voted under section 40 of this constitution.                                

23 (i) Questions determined under section 40 (i) of this constitution shall apply to the Senate as if the Senate has voted under Section 23 of this constitution.