Australia's Egalitarian Honours
Criticisms of the Australian Honours System Are Misguided
The current honours system reflects the national culture by rewarding achievements and service in a down-to-earth, relaxed way. Why turn it into a class struggle?
The recent article “There is nothing like a Dame... or Sir” by ardent monarchist David Flint is a wistful longing for the days when Australians might kneel before the British throne and beg for an OBE. In his article, Professor Flint argues Australia would be mightily enriched if only the government would reinstate citizens' ability to receive titles such as Sir and Dame, instead of mere awards such as the Order of Australia Medal (which Flint himself has received). It overlooks one key point: Australia has outgrown the UK honours system.
A defining characteristic of Australian culture is the dream of a classless society. Economics and circumstances prevent it from ever truly becoming a reality, but there is no need to add titles to that list. They hardly make anyone a better person or their achievements any greater. Instead, titles lend a gravitas that, in Australia's egalitarian culture, is easily interpreted as arrogance.
Australia is less fascinated by titles than even the United States, where citizens would address their leaders as Mr President, Madame Speaker and Governor Richardson rather than George, Nancy and Bill. An obvious contrast in Australia was during former Prime Minister John Howard's tour of areas damaged by Cyclone Larry in March 2006. Queensland locals did not greet him as `Mr Prime Minister' or even `Mr Howard'. He was simply `John', and did not show the slightest discomfort at being addressed so casually.
This is not an view held only by the conservative side of politics. In his first press conference as Australia's Prime Minister, Labor leader Kevin Rudd was asked whether he had changed as a result of winning the November 2007 election. He replied “No...I'm still Kevin,” inviting the country to view him as an ordinary bloke who happened to run the country.
It is not just politicians trying to look humble. When Australian television personality Molly Meldrum interviewed Prince Charles in November 1977, he started “I saw your mum on a carriage the other day” only to be corrected “You mean Her Majesty the Queen?” Even 30 years ago, while Great Britain was still attached to aristocracy and formality, Australia had moved on to a relaxed culture that put everyone on the same plane.
The current honours system is a good fit for Australia's attitude: it enables individuals to be thanked and recognised for their service and achievement, but does not portray them as somehow better than the wider population. It celebrates extraordinary deeds by everyday people. Lords, Ladies, Sirs and Dames are certainly welcome in Australia, and they will be met on a first-name basis.
The Australian Honours System website, with details on how to nominated for an award, is www.itsanhonour.gov.au.
