Thinking about it for 24 hours, here are WfaAR’s principles for Republic referendum success:
– the people should be asked in one or more non-binding votes about the form of the Republic and the role of the Head of State, as well as the selection model, before referendum (this removes squabbling between republican campaigners and others)
– the change must be led by the Prime Minister and the Government in an apolitical way (this will ensure passage through Parliament as well as support by voters)
– the proposal should be simple in its elements and easily explained including the changes to the Constitution
– the Republic and head of state proposals should have some uniquely Australian, modern characteristics (our country should be a leader)
– the NO case must be accurately set out (removes “fake news”).
We refer ARM to Noel Pearson’s speech at NMA – see News Item of 17 March 2021 – and to the developments in implementing The Uluru Statement from the Heart. Republic campaigners can learn much from Indigenous experience in seeking constitutional change.
