Alison Holland The Common Bond?

Australian Citizenship

In her chapter, Holland focuses on the history and importance of citizenship and its place as a common bond. The chapter follows the path of citizenship since Federation in 1901 and pays particular attention to the struggle of Aborigines and women. She notes that citizenship remains an important and confusing issue for many and shows the governments view and attitude towards this challenging problem.

Holland shows that while citizenship was one of the celebrated achievements of Federation, in the Australian Constitution it was implied, not explicitly stated. Indeed there is no actual definition of citizenship and the rights, responsibilities and status are left vague and inconclusive. As such, it is a rather insubstantial and empty construct. This becomes even more obvious when looking at select groups. While women achieved recognition of their rights to citizenship quite early, this was in no means equal as it was in a way that emphasised their dependence and need for protection. Aborigines sought equal citizenship for decades and although they were classed as Australian citizens after 1948, they were still basically without rights. Although the 1967 referendum is considered the marker for Aboriginal citizenship, Aborigines have never been formally granted citizenship and the various governments continue to use this as an argument that they already have it. While citizenship is now relatively easy to gain, it means little, as it remains ambiguous. Another point that Holland makes is that with the increase in multiculturalism, the traditional symbols of unity have faded and no clear or consistent symbols have emerged to represent Australias new identity. The Australian Citizenship Council argued that a compact promoting a set core of civic values could serve as a symbol of unity and could help close the gap between
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the legal and social definitions of citizenship. The government chose not to adopt this compact and instead compulsory singing of the national anthem and the raising of flags is used for civic pride.

Holland clearly draws attention to the issue of citizenship and the lack of a common bond within Australia. While it can be argued that the lack of a common bond and uncertainty about Australias identity is common knowledge, Holland could draw more attention to the fact that few Australians know how poorly basic rights are protected and how undefined citizenship is. After reading this, it becomes clear that the government does not want this to become common knowledge, as that could lead to public outcry and the need to actually respond to this issue, instead of sweeping it into the corners.

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