Is Australia a republic?
No, Australia is not a republic. It is a constitutional monarchy, with the British monarch as Australia's head of state, represented by the Governor-General. Australians voted against becoming a republic at a referendum in 1999.
The King of Australia is the same person as the King of the United Kingdom. Since 2022, this has been King Charles III. The monarch's role in Australia is largely ceremonial.
The Governor-General carries out most of the monarch's duties in Australia, such as signing laws and appointing ministers. Each state also has a governor representing the monarch.
The 1999 referendum
On 6 November 1999, Australians voted on a proposal to replace the monarch with a president chosen by Parliament. The proposal was rejected by about 55 percent of voters and did not pass in any state.
Many people who supported a republic voted no because they preferred a directly elected president rather than one chosen by Parliament.
The debate about becoming a republic continues. Supporters argue Australia should have an Australian head of state, while opponents say the current system works well and provides stability.