when the principality of hutt river seceded, a bill of rights, a brief document outlining the rights of "hutt river" citizens, was drafted. it also provided for an administration board to govern the principality until a permanent government could be set up. when casley declared himself a prince, the administration board was abolished and the hutt river principality became a benevolent absolute monarchy, with a legislation committee to draft new legislation. in 1997, the legislation committee presented a proposal for a constitution to the prince and his cabinet. its most recent version is effective from 1 january 2011. all citizens over 18 living in the principality have the right to elect the parliament.