|
Thomas Keneally's elegant version: CITIZENS of the Federal Commonwealth, singly, equally and together, are under God the source of Australia's sovereignty. Born of many cultures, brought from many places, we come together in devotion to Australian traditions of equality, the freedom of the person, the dignity of each individual. We acknowledge that Australia is an ancient land previously owned and occupied by Aboriginal peoples who never ceded ownership. We look to share fairly in the plenty of the Commonwealth, and see fairness as our children's birthright. Our country is a continent of immense extent, and unique on earth, demanding of us as our homeland our respect, devotion and wisdom in management. Proud of our history, we are willing to address any injustice arising from it. Under these principles, we devote ourselves to the service of this Constitution, our communities, and the welfare of the planet. |