In this episode I explore how becoming a Republic and crafting a new Constitution fit for purpose in the 2020s offers Australia the perfect opportunity to truly recognise the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander 'Voice'.
An Australian Republic means we need to replace the Crown and the Crown's superior interest in the land with something. If that 'something' is an acknowledgement of the guardianship of the land through Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander stewardship, would this, could this, or should this affect the underlying way that we as 21st century citizens in Australia relate to real property?
The current discussions about holding a referendum in Australia to make changes to the archaic 1901 Constitution (an Anglo-centric model crafted during the Empire of Queen Victoria) to create an Aboriginal Voice fails to deal with the significant issue that we are perpetuating King Charles III as 'King of Australia'. Imagine instead , if you will, what might change in terms of our identity as citizens if Australia were to become a Republic – something that many see as inevitable, albeit a situation which is yet to become a reality.
In this episode I draw heavily on my paper A 21st Century Citizen in a Brave New Republic.
I also reference Stan Grant's 'Australia Day' and 'The Queen is Dead'.
©️ Spike Boydell 2023
Host: Spike Boydell
Website: TheCustomaryLandPodcast.com
Email: contact@thecustomarylandpodcast.com
Royalty free music used in this episode is from my Artlist.io subscription.
DISCLAIMER: The views, insights and opinions shared on the Customary Land Podcast are those of the Host, any Guests, and others they may cite. They do not constitute legal or financial advice and should not be construed as such by any individual, group or organisation. Before undertaking any dealing or action relating to customary land, individuals, groups or organisations should obtain professional advice from a qualified lawyer, experienced valuer and/or certified accountant with specialist expertise in your particular country. Alternatively, you can contact Customary Land Solutions for advocacy, advisory and capacity building solutions for customary and indigenous landowning groups and trusts on land management, leasehold, valuation and resource compensation issues (E: contact@customarylandsolutions.com).