‘Farewell Oz Tour’ campaign ignites global interest in Australia’s future republic
Media Release
Wednesday 23 October 2024
‘Farewell Oz Tour’ campaign ignites global interest in Australia’s future republic
As the King and Queen of Australia depart after a whirlwind tour of Sydney and Canberra, the Australian Republic Movement’s ‘Farewell Oz Tour’ campaign has attracted strong national and international interest in Australian democracy, questioning the relevance of the monarchy for today’s richly diverse Australia.
Co-Chair Esther Anatolitis said: “With thanks to our tens of thousands of Australian Republic Movement Members and supporters – alongside Australians all over the continent and all over the world – we’ve invigorated an important nation-building conversation. We’ve responded to global media in multiple languages, all asking why we’re not yet a republic.
“With crowd numbers very low compared to past royal tours, the vast majority of Australians confirmed that they continue to see the monarchy as irrelevant to modern Australia.
“With the global spotlight on Australia, what we’ve overwhelmingly found is that Australians don’t see their home as a British realm; it’s time to wave goodbye to royal reign.”
Co-Chair Nathan Hansford said: “King Charles and Queen Camilla were met with warm Australian hospitality, embracing our sunshine, humour, and unique spirit. They’ll always be welcome, but next time, we believe they should visit as respected dignitaries, greeted by an Australian Head of State – a true reflection of our modern, independent country. It's time we step confidently into the future, with a head of state who embodies our values, aspirations, and the vision we have for Australia’s place in the world.
“An Australian Head of State will be there in times of celebration and heartbreak, helping to unify and strengthen our democracy, as well as driving our economy and jobs by promoting Australia around the world. In doing so, they will make Australia an equal on the world stage: a republic is about putting the power in the people’s hands to choose their leaders and to hold them to account.
“As the King flies off to meet the Commonwealth Heads of Government, it’s a good reminder that of the 56 nations in the Commonwealth, only 15 still call Charles their King – the vast majority of Commonwealth nations are republics.
“What’s clear after the visit is that Australia’s ready for a conversation and we pledge to include all Aussies in the discussion to build the people’s model for an Australian republic – not ARM’s, not the Government or Parliament’s, but the people’s.
“Now is your opportunity to get involved. Join the conversation at republic.org.au or on our socials. Together, we can strengthen our democracy and level the playing field for our nation.”
Ends.