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ARM
Media Statement - 13 March 2002
Head
of State Debate Back on Agenda for Women
Ms Susan
Ryan, Deputy Chair of the ARM said that the continual growth
of the republican movement since the 1999 referendum and the
recent events have caused even more Australians to support
the view that we should have our own Head of State.
"From
recently reported public comment it is clear that more Australian
women want their views to be taken into account in the Head
of State debate".
To enable
women to have their say, the Australian Republican Movement
(ARM) is inviting women of Victoria to a community forum.
The Women's
Forum will be held from 1.30 - 5.00pm on Sunday 24 March 2002
at the City of Port Phillip Town Hall (Cnr Balaclava and Brighton
Rds).
Susan
Ryan said "this open community event will be a genuine
opportunity for women to contribute to the debate about Australia's
future."
Ms Ryan
AO and NSW Senator Marise Payne will invite input from all
participants.
The keynote
address will be given by constitutional expert Professor Cheryl
Saunders, AO, Director Chair for Comparative Constitutional
Studies, Melbourne University.
The Women's
Forum will address:
- The
views and role of women in the Australian republican debate
up to the present
- Possible
models for an Australian Republic
- Women's
hopes for the future.
Ms Helen
Millicer, coordinator of the Women's Forum, said the Forum
would be an inclusive and apolitical event, aimed to generate
discussion and ensure women have a strong voice in the debate
about an Australian Head of State.
"It
is part of the ARM's commitment to promoting community discussion
and a greater understanding of issues surrounding Australia's
constitution and any future changes to it" Ms Millicer
said.
The Women's
Forum has the support of the Australian Republican Movement,
and the City of Port Phillip.
Admission
to the Women's Forum is $8 / $6 concession, and refreshments
will be provided.
For further information, please contact:
Helen Millicer Women's Coordinator
ARM Victorian State Council
Mob: 0413 875 872 AH: 9534 6625
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