What is Quick and Garran’s Annotated Constitution?
In 1901, Sir John Quick and Robert Garran published a detailed commentary on the Australian Constitution called Annotated Constitution of the Australian Commonwealth.
Both Quick and Garran participated in the Federation conventions in the 1890s and were involved in drafting the Australian Constitution. Their book includes:
- an historical introduction to the Constitution
- the original text (before it was changed by referendums)
- notes on each section of the Constitution
- commentary on the political, historical and legal aspects of the Constitution.
This authoritative work is regularly referred to by High Court of Australia judges and constitutional experts when interpreting the Constitution. The High Court interprets the Constitution by hearing cases. The judges use the arguments of the lawyers arguing the case, decisions made in previous cases and a variety of written sources – including Quick and Garran’s Annotated Constitution – to make their judgements.
Members of the Australasian Federation Conference, 1890
National Library of Australia, AN14292110
Members of the Australasian Federation Conference, 1890
National Library of Australia, AN14292110
Description
This sepia-toned photo was taken at the Australasian Federation Conference in Melbourne in 1890. These 14 men were delegates from the 6 Australian colonies and the colony of New Zealand. At the Conference, they discussed the idea that the colonies should unite. Notable advocate for Federation Henry Parkes is standing fourth from left, and Alfred Deakin (who would go on to become Prime Minister of Australia) is standing sixth from left.
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