Alex Petterwood Heads to National Convention to Debate the Future of Australia's Constitution
Year 12 student, Alex Petterwood, is about to step onto the national stage to debate one of the biggest questions in Australian democracy. On Tuesday 24 March, Alex will take part in the 31st National Schools Constitutional Convention, joining 112 Senior students from around the county to discuss whether Australia's Constitution should be changed. The three-day convention, held at the historic Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House in Canberra, provides students with a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of national decision-making and explores how Australia's political system works.
This year's debate centres on a key question: Should the Senate be able to block government spending?
In brief, the discussion will focus on whether the upper house of Parliament, the Senate, should have the power to stop supply bills, which are the laws that allow the government to spend money and keep the country running. Some believe this power serves as an important check on government authority, while others argue it can lead to major political gridlock. Students will hear from expert speakers before debating the issue and will work together to produce a formal statement outlining their conclusions. Outcomes from the Convention will be incorporated into a Communiqué that will be presented to the President of the Senate, Senator The Hon Sue Lines, for tabling in Parliament and recorded in Hansard.
Alex said he was looking forward to the opportunity to take part in such an important national discussion.
"The convention will provide me with an amazing opportunity to finally get the chance to help influence and make real legislative impacts for all Australians, where I'm able to represent myself, my community and Rivermount. I'm really passionate about civic engagement and politics - and this feels like a perfect segue for me into a future career."
As part of the program, attendees will enjoy a welcome reception at Parliament House, hosted by The Hon Jason Clare MP, Minister for Education. Delegates will also meet the Governor-General, Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, at Government House, and attend an official dinner at the National Press Club.
We wish Alex the best of luck as he represents the College and the next generation of Australians engaging in the nation's democratic future.
