Australia Up Close

Australians Debate

By CHELSEAMcLEAN

Should Australia preserve its traditional ties with Britain or redefine itself as an independent nation by becoming a republic? This is the question at the center of current debate Down Under.

Since its colonization by Britain almost 210 years ago, Australia has become an independent nation with a strong identity in the Asia-Pacific region. Our proximity to Asia encouraged us to develop new economic and cultural relations in the region. Therefore, it is symbolically important for Australia to become a republic.

Australia's days as a constitutional monarchy seem to be numbered. People from other countries often cannot understand why Australia still has the Queen of England as its head of state. If we do not become a republic by the year 2000, furthermore, it is likely that the Queen or other member of the British royal family will open the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. This would destroy a golden opportunity for Australia to promote itself as a nation with its own identity and cultural heritage.

The Queen has a representative in Australia called the governor-general. Even though he is not normally involved in politics, the governor-general has the power to overrule the prime minister. And in 1975 the governor-general actually dismissed Australia's elected Prime Minister Gough Whitlam. Leaders from other countries found it hard to understand his ability to do this.

I would like to see Australia become a republic before the year 2000. Our closeness to Asia in terms of geography, culture and business is becoming increasingly important. In 1948 Australians were called British subjects instead of Australian citizens. Back then almost all Australians who were born overseas came from England. Today, Australia is made up of many different races including Asians. Britain has developed strong ties with the European nations, and that is where its economic interests lie. Australia and Britain are losing relevance for each other politically, economically and culturally. History is our only connection.

My grandparents have a different view. My grandmother was born in London and so was my father's grandmother. They think Australia should keep its link with the British monarchy because they feel a sense of loyalty toward their home country.

However, my generation does not have strong links with England. We have been influenced more by our Asian neighbors. Therefore, when my generation comes of age, Australia will inevitably become a republic.

My 18-year-old brother Darren wants Australia to become a republic, but he doesn't think the time has come just yet. There are still many older Australians alive today who fought in wars under the Union Jack, which symbolizes our British heritage.

"The Australian Government must choose the right time for Australia to become a republic. Perhaps we should wait until our historical ties with England become less important to the older Australians in our community," Darren said.

My university friend Chieko Suzuki thinks Australia should definitely become a republic in the near future. Australia has its own economic power and can support itself, Chieko said.

More than half of Australians favor a republic, according to a recent opinion poll. Former Prime Minister Paul Keating gave the republican movement great hope by promising a republic by the year 2001. Current Prime Minister John Howard, however, wants Australia to maintain its links with Britain and retain the Queen as our head of state.

The Howard government promised to give Australians a chance to vote on the issue by the year 2000. It has not set a date, however, or indicated whether the vote will be in the form of a plebiscite to indicate support for a republic, or a referendum to let Australians decide the issue.

Becoming a republic is an inevitable part of Australia's development as a nation. The Howard government should take action to resolve the issue soon to ensure the best outcome for Australia. It is time to confirm our national identity.

Shukan ST: Feb. 14, 1997

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