The Dismissal Deniers
Next Tuesday marks the 50th anniversary of when Governor-General Sir John Kerr lawfully used a constitutional power to resolve a political deadlock and secure funds needed by the Crown to run the government. Despite this, Sir John has faced relentless criticism during his life and after his death.
It is important to clarify that Sir John Kerr did not remove a failed government; that was the will of the Australian people. Kerr simply provided the chance for them to do so. This outcome was a consequence of his decision, not its purpose.
I expected this milestone to trigger renewed criticism of Sir John Kerr. What I did not foresee was a coordinated attack involving three fronts: a new biography of Whitlam, a Sky News Australia documentary, and a full-day event organized by the Museum of Australian Democracy and live-streamed from Old Parliament House.
The event, chaired by Barrie Cassidy, features highly partisan figures such as journalists Paul Kelly and Troy Bramston, along with academic Professor Jenny Hocking, all known critics of Kerr. Most participants have Labor Party affiliations. Anticipate a storm of controversy around the parliamentary precinct on this widely respected anniversary.
“Sir John Kerr simply gave them the opportunity to do so. And more importantly, that was a by-product of – not the motivation for – his decision.”
“...a day-long spectacular organised by the Museum of Australian Democracy and live-streamed from Old Parliament House...participants are Labor-aligned.”
Author's summary: The 50th anniversary of Sir John Kerr’s dismissal power marks renewed, politically charged debates, highlighting divisions over his legacy and the truth behind his historic role.
More News
- The everyday fruit juice that may help steady blood pressure and soothe inflammation
- SERIOUS | Pronunciation in English - Cambridge Dictionary
- Tail Up Goat’s Days Are Numbered, But a Surprise Replacement Is in Store
- [Report: Earlier Start Times for UFC Numbered Events Expected to Be Permanent]
- Paramount And UFC Expand Partnership To Australia
- Minor power outage in southern Sask.
- 2025 News items - Conference marks milestone in initiative to support services trade in developing economies
- [Definition of 'someone's days are numbered' — Collins Dictionary]
- Oppo Find X9 Pro Review: Serious Photographic Power
- UNESCO works towards Ukraine’s recovery thanks to support from Japan