in brief: knights and dames can still grace our Aussie shores

Nearly thirty years at after the Hawke government abolished the title of Knights and Dames in Australia, Tony Abbott has reintroduced the honour in order to celebrate ‘pre-eminent’ Australians.

The first to receive these honours under Abbott’s administration will be the outgoing Governor-General Quentin Bryce, along with incoming Governor-General Peter Cosgrove, who will be knighted this Friday.

It was announced that up to four knights and dames can be appointed in any year, and the Queen will bestow the honour under the Prime Minister’s recommendation, allowing extraordinary public servants of our nation to be graced with the one of the most prestigious regal titles in Australia.

Abbott believes it is ‘an important grace note in our national life’, but Opposition Leader, Bill Shorten has expressed his concern that this was a priority for the Prime Minister.

‘It’s good to see the government has a plan for knights and dames – but what’s their plan for jobs?’

The decision to re-establish the titles comes as a surprise after Abbott ruled out bringing back Knights and Dames in December, last year. But the Liberal Party supports the recognition of great Australians and the honours system will celebrate Australian ties to Britain.

What’s your view, Lipsters?
Do you agree with Abbott’s move to reinstate knighthoods in Australia? Or  do you think it’s an unneccessary monarchist tradition?
Which ‘pre-eminent’ Australians do you think deserve to be knights/dames?
Share your comments with us below!