The 1999 Australian Republic Referendum

On November 6, 1999, Australians participated in a significant referendum to decide whether the country should become a republic and replace the British monarch with an Australian head of state. This event was a pivotal moment in Australia’s constitutional history, reflecting ongoing debates about national identity and governance.

Context and Background

The idea of Australia becoming a republic had been a topic of discussion for decades, gaining momentum in the late 20th century. The push for a republic was partly driven by a desire for Australia to assert its independence and national identity, distinct from its colonial ties to Britain. The movement was supported by various political figures and organizations, including the Australian Republican Movement, which advocated for an Australian head of state.

In 1998, the Australian Constitutional Convention was held to discuss the possibility of Australia becoming a republic. The convention proposed a model where the President would be appointed by a two-thirds majority of the Australian Parliament, replacing the British monarch as the ceremonial head of state.

The Referendum

The referendum held on November 6, 1999, presented Australians with two questions. The first question asked whether they approved of the proposed constitutional change to establish the Commonwealth of Australia as a republic with a President appointed by Parliament. The second question concerned the insertion of a preamble into the Constitution.

The proposal for a republic required a majority of votes in a majority of states to pass, a high threshold that reflects the difficulty of constitutional change in Australia.

Results

The referendum resulted in the defeat of the republican proposal. Approximately 54.87% of Australians voted against the change, while 45.13% supported it. The proposal failed to secure a majority in any state, with the highest support coming from the Australian Capital Territory.

Aftermath and Significance

The defeat of the referendum was a setback for the republican movement in Australia. It highlighted divisions within the movement, particularly disagreements over the method of selecting a President. Many Australians were also concerned about the potential implications of such a constitutional change.

Despite the defeat, the referendum sparked ongoing discussions about Australia’s national identity and its constitutional future. The debate over becoming a republic remains a relevant issue in Australian politics, with periodic calls for revisiting the question.

The 1999 referendum is a notable example of the complexities involved in constitutional reform and the challenges of altering a nation’s foundational legal document. It underscores the importance of consensus and clear communication in efforts to enact significant constitutional changes.