Response from Monarchists and Republicans to Labor’s Decision to Eliminate Ministerial Role

Both supporters and opponents of Australia severing official ties with the British monarchy have shared their opinions following the removal of the ministerial position, the assistant minister for a republic, during the recent cabinet reshuffle by the Albanese government.

Matt Thistlethwaite, the member for Kingsford Smith, was relieved of the portfolio in the July 28 announcement, signaling a lack of interest in holding an official referendum on a republic.

A previous referendum in 1999 to change Australia’s political system and constitution was unsuccessful.

Daniel Lahood from Australians for a Constitutional Monarchy (ACM) mentioned that they were contemplating a High Court challenge over the elimination of the portfolio.

“The decision to abolish the portfolio of the assistant minister for the republic and not proceed with a republic referendum is long overdue but has been welcomed by ACM,” he stated to The Epoch Times.

“The prime minister had simply failed to read the room.”

Mr. Lahood emphasized that Australians have more pressing concerns than the head of state issue.

“Australians across the country are not losing sleep over who their head of state is. The focus should be on how people can afford to pay their rent or mortgage and put food on the table,” he explained.

“ACM has sought legal advice on the constitutionality of the existence of an assistant minister for the republic and is considering a High Court challenge.”

National chair of the Australian Monarchist League, Philip Benwell, also supported the decision to eliminate the role but mentioned that the Australian Greens may still advocate for a republic in a minority government setting.

“Our primary focus is now on the upcoming visit of the King and Queen in October and on establishing an educational program for all Australians, particularly about the Australian Constitution and the role of the King and the Crown within it,” he told The Epoch Times.

Early polling suggests that there is a possibility that the Labor government may not secure enough seats in the next election to govern independently.

Republic Movement to Continue Push

However, Australian Republican Movement (ARM) co-chairs Nathan Hansford and Esther Anatolitis affirmed to The Epoch Times that they are committed to eventually removing the monarchy in Australia and having a head of state that reflects the country’s cultural diversity.

“We have long understood that a referendum on an Australian republic was not likely in this government term,” Mr. Hansford stated.

“Matt Thistlethwaite has been a long-time supporter of the ARM, and we appreciate the work he has done to bring the issue of an Australian Republic back into public debate.”

Mr. Hansford mentioned that it is not suitable for the group to comment on the internal workings of the cabinet reshuffle and said that it would be Australians, not the government, who will ultimately lead the movement for a republic.

“At the ARM, we are tirelessly working to raise awareness and engage in important discussions with Australians about the necessary steps to ensure that we are represented by an Australian, someone who can embody the unique and diverse cultures that define true Australian identity,” he shared.