People Power - Darcy (New Work Samples)
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Sir John Kerr was the Governor General during the time in which Gough Whitlam was PM (1972-75). Usually the Governor General’s receive no fame or recognition, however Sir John Kerr is the worst famous Governor General in all Australia’s history. His actions and their consequences will never be forgotten.
Mr Gough Whitlam was an educated, firm and confident man who believed he could greatly benefit Australia as a leader. After he was elected in December 1972 he got straight to work. Some of his policies included: The abolishment of the White Australia policy, the introduction of multiculturalism, the introduction of medicare and health benefits, free university tuition and even changed the national anthem from “God save the Queen” to “ Advance Australia Fair”. He opened up trade partnerships with Asia and flew around the world meeting with other leaders and boosting Australia’s image on the world stage.
Even though policies were well and good, the Australian Public was apprehensive towards the finality and speed of the policies. They thought things were out of control and opposition leader, Malcolm Fraser was not trying to improve Whitlam’s image in the slightest. Gough’s ground ideas and future prospects were becoming dangerously expensive and he began to borrow money from all over the place.
In 1975, when Whitlam asked Fraser for the Supply Bill to be passed, Fraser said yes. However this was not the case. The supply bill was blocked because of fear Whitlam would spend the money thoughtlessly.
This was a big problem because without the Supply Bill the government does not have the funds needed to run itself or the country.
Shortly after (November 11, 1975) Whitlam was called into Kerr’s office where he was formally dismissed as PM and Fraser elected to fill the job. This decision caused national uproar which divided the nation. Some would argue Kerr had no right to dismiss the PM and that proper warning should have been given. Where as others believe Whitlam would have economically run the country in to the ground.
Regardless of what opinions may be Sir John Kerr’s story should be taught to all students as to gain knowledge of one of the biggest political controversies in Australia’s history
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