WfaAR doesn’t think much of it (see our 1 September news item) and said so to the AWW. They didn’t publish our letter so here it is. We urge the AWW to run an article covering opposing views and assist women…
Another portrait of the Queen of Australia is unveiled in Canberra by the Governor-General, Quentin Bryce. Asked why he was chosen to paint the only official jubilee portrait, artist Ralph Heimans speculates that because the portrait was to be unveiled at the National Portrait Gallery and displayed…
In a move that was strongly foreshadowed in a speech given by Attorney-General Nicola Roxon on 20 July, the Government announces that the referendum to recognise our First Peoples in the Constitution would be deferred in favour of an Act of Recognition (with a…
Australian born writer, Kathy Lette, now resident in the UK, sees things as they are. She reports that a new survey about a Cambridge baby rates the child – now the subject of intense speculation and the heir to the heir to the heir to the British…
The fourth National Republican Short Story Competition is now underway with the theme: ‘defining Australian identity in a future Australian republic’. Entries close 6 November and cost $11.99. Length 2000-4000 words with first prize of $500; second $60 and third…
The September edition of the Weekly has a 25 page feature on the young royals with a heavily made-up Kate on the front cover. They’re obviously selling but the content doesn’t gel especially as the main article,”Why it’s hip to be royal” is clearly intended…
The Olympics provide yet another perspective on the Australian Republic. Once again there was the enervating spectacle of the unremarkable flag, hardly distinguishable from that of New Zealand, alongside green and gold boxing kangaroos. The medal ceremony for first (UK), second (Australia) and third (New Zealand)…
Girl Guides Australia announces that it has changed its Promise (the oath taken by all guides) and dropped allegiance to the Queen. Guides Director, Brenda Allen said that the change had been made after 18 months of consultation and added, “Our community…
A British poll finds that its royal family is enjoying record popularity with 69 percent in favour, the largest support recorded since 1997, but only 39 percent wanted the throne to pass to Charles, 48 percent preferring it to go straight to William. However, those…
Following the Diamond Jubilee events in London and yet another Queen’s Birthday holiday weekend here, it seems as good a time as any to review the role of the British monarch in Australia. Firstly, does she advise, warn or counsel? (Bagehot). Secondly, does she “perform the…
