30 July

In a passionate speech in favour of the republic in Adelaide, Janet Holmes a Court nominated the current Governor-General, Sir William Deane, as the first President of Australia saying that he would be a marvellous, healing appointment which would overcome the fear factor for some people. She declined to rule out taking the position herself saying that it was a really difficult question to answer. She also said that it would be highly embarrassing for Australia if the referendum were lost and it would be a very long time before the issue was raised again.