There was a recent post about this on here but I don't think it really should be compulsory but on the other hand I don't know what should be included if english isnt included, it would make ATAR calculations much more volatile (?) or subject to massive changes and below is my opinion, its what i think lol
1) Not all of the stuff you learnt in English was useless, I mean sure you're never gonna analyse poetry or understand discovery/journey/belonging or you're never gonna properly incorporate textual evidence in real life conversations but the skills from analysis will help you become more aware and knowledgeable of the outside world.
2) Ok again, not exactly applicable after university but it depends on what career you're doing but generally learning how to incorporate textual evidence and techniques helps you understand the importance of things and the effects of such quotes and techniques. I mean theyre not very useful but they still have purpose - which is to test your memory and your ability to mold the quote/technique into the essay question.
3) I don't think its so much about the writing the essay itself but it's more about putting you under pressure and stress, just like the real world will do to you (although all you have to do is remember ur prepared essay) but i think the most important thing they want is time management and prioritisation eg do I do my creative first or my essay first, what are my strengths ans weaknesses and how much time should i allocate to each section