Nation 'not ready' for republic vote
PRIME Minister Malcolm Turnbull has stressed the need for a major campaign to prepare voters for a referendum on a republic.
In the wake of news this week that all state and territory leaders supported Australia becoming a republic, Mr Turnbull said there needed to be "strong popular momentum for a change".
"There are many more urgent issues confronting Australia and indeed confronting the government than the momentum or the desire for Australia to become a republic," he said.
"There needs to be the right timing."
Opposition Leader Bill Shorten urged Mr Turnbull yesterday to join forces to make Australia a republic.
The Australian Republican Movement has called for a referendum by 2020, but advocates a non-binding plebiscite to gauge the community's support before heading to a proper vote.
Former Army chief David Morrison said he would use his time as Australian of the Year to push for a republic.
