This week the mighty Australian Matildas take on England’s Lionesses, an historic moment, as it’s the first time the two teams have met at a FIFA World Cup.
As every Aussie dons the green and gold to cheer on our loved national team, it’s a stark reminder that our Head of State will be wearing red and white to support his own team.
New ARM CEO and National Director Isaac Jeffrey, who begins his tenure today, said: “The Matildas continue to show the mateship, competitive spirit and willingness to give it their all, which makes them the pride of our nation. Every Australian is deeply inspired by what the team has achieved and is backing them all the way.
“Sport brings us together and unites us. It’s a way for us to celebrate our nation. Our national teams are a symbol of unity and equality with players and staff from a multitude of backgrounds and multicultural origins coming together to proudly wear the green and gold for our country.
“King Charles is an Englishman. He’ll be patriotically wearing the red and white, and backing the Lionesses – as he should – he’s the King of England. The question for Australians is, who is backing us on the international stage?
“It’s time we had our own Head of State. A local, chosen by Aussies, responsible to us and working for us. Someone elected on merit who shares our values, has an undivided and unwavering commitment to Australia, and someone we’d be proud to see in the stands wearing green and gold to cheer on our nation.”
ARM Co-Chair, Nova Peris OAM said: “The Matildas have shown the heart, integrity and passion which makes them true champions of the world game.
“Australians want a Head of State who embodies the same Australian spirit and who can help lead our united nation. We can recognise and embrace everything which has made Australia the incredible place that we so love today, including our Indigenous, multicultural and British roots, while looking to shape our shared future.
“An Australian republic is that opportunity – a new chapter for Australia, built on the solid foundations which have made us what we are and strengthening our commitment to each other and our democratic values.”
ARM Co-Chair and Australia’s 40th Socceroos Captain Craig Foster AM added: “It is an overwhelming and humbling experience to lead your team onto the pitch. To hear the roar of the crowd and know that your country is behind you. To see the waving flags and wall to wall green and gold army in the stands backing you to win. I want to see that same drive and that same passion to represent Australia on the world stage in our very own Head of State.
“Now is the time for us to come together as one. To take our nation forward. It’s time for an Australian Head of State, not draped in the colours of a friendly yet foreign land, cheering loudly for our opponents, but standing alongside us and the Matildas in the green and gold of Australia.”
Go Matildas! You do us Aussies proud!
Background:
Isaac Jeffrey was appointed as CEO and National Director of the Australia Republic Movement 14 August 2023. Previously Isaac was CEO of the National Irrigators’ Council. Isaac has a background in government, small business, and public and government relations.
He spent a decade in government holding roles which included Chief of Staff and Principal Private Secretary to various Federal Ministers, including the Deputy Prime Minister, and as a public servant with the Department of Defence.
Isaac has a Master of Politics and Policy and a Bachelor of Business (Honours). He is a country boy at heart, having grown up in regional NSW. He is a lifelong supporter of an Australian republic, and a passionate advocate for democracy and human rights.
