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Articles on Breaking political conventions

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In many important areas of Australia’s system of government, much is determined by unwritten rules – or what we call ‘constitutional conventions’. Archives New Zealand

How unwritten rules shape ministerial accountability

Australia’s Constitution sets the ground rules for its system of government. But many things one might expect to be in the Constitution are simply not there.
The efficacy of our political conventions relies on a healthy respect in society for their role in regulating our governments. AAP

We all have a role in protecting democracy’s unwritten rules

Laws play their role in regulating our governments, but so does our own respect for political conventions. And the way these are upheld goes to the heart of our freedom as democratic people.
Most Australians are unlikely to be able to describe the doctrine of the separation of powers, but they’re quick to assert their liberties under the rubric of a ‘fair go’. AAP/Richard Milnes

Gillian Triggs: How the ‘fair go’ became the last bulwark for Australia’s freedoms

The government’s uncontested assessment of national interest and security often trumps the rule of domestic and international law, as well as Australia’s obligations under human rights treaties.
Australia still follows Westminster in allowing key principles of democratic accountability to operate according to convention. Brad Hammonds

Following suit: why political conventions matter

Political conventions may be challenged and redefined by every new government, but it is their role in promoting political accountability that ensures the health of our democracy.

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