Candidate Statements: ARM National Committee 2026

These statements are presented in alphabetical order by last name. To review the rules of the election, visit the elections page.

an image of Esther standing outside smiling

Esther Anatolitis

As Co-Chair I’ve learned from ARM elders and Members all over Australia, appeared extensively in the media, and my book When Australia Became a Republic (2025) has sparked debate. I’ve led strategy, agenda-setting talks, impactful pro bono partnerships, and helped get the house in order. An AICD-qualified, ASIC-registered director, I’ve led major non-profits for over 25 years, with directorships including multiple ministerial appointments. Together, let’s build our movement to find our moment.

A photo of Michael smiling to the camera

Michael Cooney

Michael has been a member of the Australian Republic Movement since he was 15 years old, as someone born after the referendum, he will bring a passionate young voice to engage the critical demographic of young people who missed the last debate for a republic.

A photo of Ian on a blue background smiling at the camera

Ian Daniels

You and I know that Australia needs an Australian Head of State (AHOS). I have a plan. I founded the AHOS Movement to complement ARM in reaching the goal – an Australian as AHOS.I am committed to action – not social events that simply regurgitate old discussions. YOUR support will ensure it happens. I am a Life Member of ARM. LinkedIn shows details of my career. I know and understand politics. We WILL success through my passion and YOUR support. For action and results, vote Ian Daniels.

Andrew Fraser

These are tough times for our movement, but we need to keep the pressure up and keep the Republic in people’s minds. Politicians will have trouble supporting us unless they see evidence that Australia becoming fully independent is an issue. It is particularly important that states outside of NSW and Victoria are represented, simply because a referendum needs the support of a majority of states. I am a former journalist and speechwriter who was queensland convenor of the ARM for six years.

an image of Carl smiling at the camera

Carl Hagon

I bring leadership and governance experience across legal and corporate settings, with a strong track record of collaboration and stakeholder engagement as a leader in a large Brisbane based firm and a non-executive director of an ASX company. I am actively engaged in civic discussions and understand Australia’s contemporary political landscape. I am committed to strengthening our democracy and will contribute strategic thinking, inclusive leadership, and sustained advocacy to ARM.

an image of Nathan standing outside smiling to the camera

Nathan Hansford

I am seeking re-election to support ARM’s next stage: strengthening civics knowledge across Australia so more Australians understand our Constitution, our democracy, and the case for an Australian Head of State. As Co-Chair, I have represented ARM across TV, radio and print, engaged members and decision-makers, and helped guide the Movement through a high-profile period. As a peak body CEO and former ARM Treasurer and ACT Convenor, I bring governance, advocacy and government relations experience.

An image of Mike standing outside at a winery looking at the camera

Mike Maiolo

I believe in the Republic movement and it could do with my help.

Patrick McGorry

I have been a lifelong republican, both in relation to my country of birth Ireland, and in Australia since 1968 as an adolescent. I have been a member of National Committee previously and am highly motivated to resume where I left off. The failure of the Voice referendum highlights the fact that the republic is more salient and would be the ideal pathway to reconciliation. With the rise of populism and harmful socioeconomic megatrends, securing an Australian Republic is more urgent than ever.

An image of Isaac smiling to the camera

Isaac McSwan

I'm Isaac, Treasurer and QLD Convenor. As Treasurer, I've taken us from growing solvency concerns to the largest bank balance since 2023, with more to come. I'm a Partner at Brisbane firm McSwan and Hunt and Treasurer of the QLD Holocaust Museum. Our Movement waited years for the Queen to pass. Now we wait on government after the Voice. That's not how issues are won. We win by pushing and building popular support. We're at a crossroads: improve finances, invest in branches, get active.

Yasmin Poole

As National Youth Convenor, I created the Republic Youth Series, engaging 100+ young people with speakers including Malcolm Turnbull and cross-party politicians which revitalised youth interest in a republic. The Series (ongoing) will involve writing the Youth Charter for a Republic which will be presented to politicians across the country. I'll also work to deepen multicultural engagement. I bring board experience as Board Director of OzHarvest, Democracy in Colour & Multicultural Youth Group.

Adam Spencer

If chosen to serve another term it would be an honour. The current National Committee has done much to stabilise the ARM but there is still work to do. I’m excited to take on that challenge.