Can we forward plan a hard fork for 12 months time for possibly changing the algo - not actually implementing a hard fork or changing the algo, but just the discussion about doing so?

That gives darkcoin enough time to be ASIC resistant, put ASIC manufacturers off developing something, put people off pre-orders, assure miners for a while and give plenty of notice to all those that would need notice like merchants, pools, etc.

If ASICs are desired at some point within the next 12 months. You can remove the threat.

The possible downside is that some would not bother developing apps and some merchants might wait.