Chapter 14.5

Question 1

two possible future reforms to the constitution

Answer 1

• Establishing a first nations voice in the australian constitution
• Making australia a republic rather than a constitutional monarchy which would remove the king of england as australias head of state

Question 2

establishing a first nations voice

Answer 2

For years, First Nations people have fought for a say in decisions and laws that affect them, including calls for reserved parliamentary seats and a national representative body. Despite past promises of recognition, constitutional acknowledgment was not achieved until 2017, when the Referendum Council helped establish a unified national position.

Question 3

reasons for a voice to parliament

Answer 3

The First Nations Voice to Parliament aims to provide First Nations people with a platform to influence decisions on issues affecting them, improving the quality of programs and outcomes. While advisory and non-binding, it ensures their input on significant matters impacting their wellbeing. The 1967 referendum allowed the Commonwealth to legislate for First Nations but didn’t give them a role in shaping those laws. The Voice seeks to ensure that representatives genuinely reflect First Nations communities, rather than being appointed, and aims to be enshrined in the Constitution to prevent future governments from easily dissolving it. This initiative also seeks to empower First Nations people by involving them in decision-making and self-determination. In June 2023, Parliament approved a referendum to include the Voice in the Constitution, with the vote scheduled for December 2023.

Question 4

becoming a republic

Answer 4

In 2022, after winning the federal election, the Australian Labor Party appointed an Assistant Minister for the Republic, sparking speculation about a future referendum on Australia becoming a republic. However, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that any plans for a republic referendum would be considered only after the referendum on a First Nations Voice.

Question 5

the model for a republic

Answer 5

If Australia holds a referendum on becoming a republic, the government will need to decide how to choose a head of state. While many Australians support the idea, there’s debate over the selection process. The Australian Republic Movement (ARM) has suggested a new model: each state parliament and the federal parliament would each choose a candidate, and the public would then vote for their preferred candidate. This is different from the model proposed in the 1999 referendum.