Delegates, it is my privilege to second this resolution.
We are a nation that believes in equality, justice and a fair go for all.
And at our best, we are among the most tolerant and inclusive places in the world.
We are a confident and modern nation.
Sadly, our Constitution reflects neither our confidence nor our modernity.
So together we must renew our call for an Australian Republic.
Our party has always led way, led the conversation about our national identity.
Whether it was Curtin who looked beyond the Empire during the darkest days of World War Two.
Or Gough Whitlam who dismantled the White Australia Policy and celebrated multiculturalism, laying the foundations for a modern Australia.
Or of course Paul Keating who gave such impetus to the campaign for an Australian head of state, and who said about this change that it would recognizeour deepest respect is for our Australian heritage, our deepest affection is for Australia, and our deepest responsibility is to Australias future.
Two decades on, now firmly in the Asian Century, we are yet to honor that responsibility to our future.
To call for a Republic is not a repudiation of our system of Government.
It is an affirmation of the principles which underpin it.
Principles that we hold, that we can govern ourselves, free of the remaining vestiges of Empire including Tony Abbotts knighthoods and be able to say that any Australian can aspire to be our nations head of state.
This resolution provides a pathway forward.
It contains vision and pragmatism.
We learned from the lessons of the 1999 referendum and recognise that it is not enough to speak to the people who agree with you.
We must seek out those who dont.
We must advocate and build consensus.
And we must make the case for a modern independent Australia that celebrates our diversity and our egalitarian ethos.
Delegates, Labors legacy has helped shape our national identity.
And lending our support to the Republican cause, at this time, will help shape our nations future.
I commend the resolution.