The Australian Republic
Some say an Australian Republic is the final step in a journey towards independence and nationhood for our country. It will have a resident Australian citizen as Head of State, chosen through a process that reflects Australian values such as equality, fairness and democracy.
If you are interested in the role of a future Australian Head of State, OurSay is offering you the opportunity to ask the big questions about what it means for Australia to one day become a Republic.
Working with the Australian Republican Movement (ARM) the top 5 questions on OurSay will be discussed by the featured panelists at the ARM Victorian Republican Conference held at Deakin University (Melbourne Campus) on Saturday 4th February 2012. You can download a flyer for the event here.
The 1999 Republican Referendum failed because the majority of Australians voted against having a republic with a President appointed by Parliament. Although there has been no referendum since, it seems that the repulbican model most likely to gain acceptance would involve having a President elected by the people. I think what needs to be debated at this conference is: 1. the number of candiates to stand for a presidental election 2. how those candidates are to be nominated. 3. Criteria for nominations e.g no political ties, community standing, etc.