The Australian Republican Movement (ARM) today welcomed this week's Eureka 150 celebrations in Victoria.

ARM Chair Professor John Warhurst stated, "In a history largely devoid of political and revolutionary struggle, Eureka Stockade stands as Australia's only armed uprising to demand democratic rights.

"While there were many motivations behind the rebellion, republicanism was undoubtedly one of them. The rebels challenged colonial authority, arming themselves against colonial forces. They raised an Australian flag of independence, pledged an oath to stand firm in defence of one another and even drafted a Declaration of Independence.

"In the wake of the uprising Victorians achieved responsible government and a string of reforms which today provide the foundations of Australian democracy."

Professor Warhurst stated that Eureka served as an inspiration to Australian republicans today. "Eureka is a reminder that true sovereignty lies with the Australian people, not with an undemocratic, unelected and hereditary institution on the other side of the world. The Eureka rebels challenged the inequity, corruption and unrepresentative nature of the colonial administration; 150 years later we continue to work towards a truly Australian Head of State."

To commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Eureka uprising, the Australian Republican Movement will be hosting a lunch in Ballarat this Saturday. For further details see http://vic.republic.org.au/