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Dianne Hungerford HUNGERFORD, Dianne Orientation: Republican. Head of State: Open-minded regarding selection method. Candidate Statement:    Available at the Australian Electoral Commission web site. Further Information: 48 Spring Myrtle Avenue Nambour Qld 4560 Phone: (07) 5476 0378 (after hours) E-mail: newhung@ozemail.com.au

Statement Biographical Details

Allocation of Preferences: 13 allocated, including 1 for self.

2-4  Independents: Maurie Hee, John Pyke, Ross Garrad
5-6  ACC Australians for Constitutional Choice
7-10  Independents: Charles Mollison, Chris Monsour, Max Dunstan, Paul Hoolihan
11-13  Women for a Just Republic

Why you should consider voting for Dianne Hungerford as a candidate for the Constitutional Convention.

Australia is ready to be independent and the first step is to become a Republic. And since the constitution's wording needs to be changed then now is the time to put the power in the hands of the people. The decision to elect an ungrouped candidate like myself will allow an 'average Australian` to campaign for the above changes.

When Australia becomes a republic, it will be like celebrating an 18th birthday party. There will be a celebration, everybody will become aware of the change of status and there will not be any large significant changes immediately but there has been change. Over time Australia will embrace responsibility to change our lifestyle so that it is more "mature" and relevant to modern times eg a Bill of Rights that includes freedom of speech.

Ordinary people want to be more involved in government decisions; the right to vote every three years is not good enough. Grassroots democracy is desirable so that citizens are actively involved in important decisions. Modern technology makes it so easy to "Ask the People!" The constitution's wording must initiate this change so that power is in the hands of the people.

A basic human right is the belief that all humans are equal; the present monarchial system implies that the Royals are better than ordinarv Australians.

Personal background

Currently I am a senior teacher of Geography and English at Maroochydore State High. I have also taught at Townsville, Ingham, Richlands and Burnside High.

When I started at Maroochydore four years ago there was no environmental studies at the school so I started a lunch time group called Maroochydore High Junior Landcare. This group has gone on to win State and National Awards but most importantly has boosted my belief in grassroots actions. Given the opportunity these youth have achieved so much.

I was born in Nambour and my parents are well known in the district for their voluntary work in a variety of organisations. The ultimate accolade for my parents was when the High School hall at Nambour was named Hungerford Hall. Since coming back to my home area I have been involved in the executive of the Sunshine Coast Eisteddfod; especially in the speech and drama sections. I have two daughters; one is an exploration geologist in Western Australia and the other is doing her final university accountancy exams at the moment. My husband Ron Newton is a teacher at Burnside High.

So what does all this information say about me? Basically it says that I am an average working Australian with a family and a commitment to being involved with what I believe in.

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Ross Garrad, 11 November 1997