Reform, for the people's sake

Abstract

The republican debate, which some would argue was resolved in the last federal referendum, was a sad and a wasted opportunity to examine the broader issues surrounding citizenship and human rights in Australia. Now, in Victoria, there is a similar opportunity to think more broadly about constitutional reform that could just as easily disappear. Federally, the minimalist approach to the republican issue and constitutional reform prevented Australians from having a fundamental discussion. We should be addressing honestly what sort of society we are, what sort of society we want and have the capacity to be and what mechanisms we need in place to ensure that whatever happens occurs in a manner that includes all, protects the vulnerable and enables people in Australia to maximise their potential.