The Prime Minister uses this term in radio interviews shortly after the election and later repeats it formally in an address to the National Press Club in mid May. This is now “the Australian Way” apparently. While this term has been around with various meanings*, it sounds foreign and imported from the United States War of Independence (even if Mel Gibson was “The Patriot”) as well as characteristic of far right protest movements as Australians have not, to date, been openly nationalistic flag wavers at a community level. We have also rejected the concept of “patriotism” that we observe in other countries: loud, overt and used for political purposes. We have more of a quiet, deeply felt love for our country and its people reflected in its striking landscapes and freedoms. What this contemporary meaning seemed to impart when newly minted by the PM – perhaps he sought to redefine the term in an Australian context? – was that Australia would retain and reinforce its sovereignty (arising from defence debates about military alliances) but marry that with progressive social values and policies firmly rooted in social democracy. It also sounds a masculine description so is unlikely to strike a chord with women or deal with our national identity increasingly in flux. It would also seem not to be a fit rallying cry for an Australian Republic. (Update: it hasn’t been heard since.)
*often associated with having the ability to be severely critical of your own country while still maintaining affection for and pride in it. See also Mark Kenny’s article in Crikey 5 June 2025 for a thorough discussion of what “progressive patriotism” might mean and how it could be applied although Kenny also notes that “patriotism refers to how citizens feel about their nation”. Perhaps Irish musician and wordsmith, Billy Bragg, covers it best: “Simply really. Progressive patriots believe that their country could be better and do better and we work to make it better, for all.” That covers the social democracy aspect anyway.
