01-06-2025
The changes we need to make to the war memorial's governing council
Finally, if the outcome of the Voice referendum has inhibited proper commemoration of the Australian Wars at the memorial, we offer the Defending Country theme. "Defending Country" applies to all who have fought for Australia or parts of it, just as much to First Australians (Arrernte, Noongar, Wiradjuri and others), defending their Country on Country (and often dying on Country), as to uniformed Australians fighting our overseas wars. An emphasis on Defending Country does not divide Australians, but treats them equally, black and white, those not in uniform and those in uniform. Defending Country is a theme that should appeal to a bold, ambitious government.
