Australians - What is your opinion of Great Britain?

Question

It seems our history has crippled a modern day relationship with Australia, however is this true. What do you Aussie's think of Britain?

Thanks.

Answer 1

I thought we were good mates, similar but different. Aussies don't generally have any ill will towards Brits.

Answer 2

I don't have a problem with British people, but I'm not a fan of Great Britain itself, You're correct in saying that (for some of us at least), history is to blame.

I grew up in the 50s and 60s when Britain was still exploiting Australia and where our governments (Menzies et al) saw our country as being an inferior though resource rich extension of what they thought of as the 'Mother Country'.

I could probably have forgiven and forgotten that history though, had not your queen, through her representative, sacked our lawfully elected government. She STILL approves the appointment of our prime minister and ministers; until fairly recently our final avenue of legal appeal was the BRITISH Privy Council; our anthem was the BRITISH one and the BRITISH flag is still prominent on our flag - I can't wait to see the back of Great Britain in Australian affairs.

My views are not shared by those Australians who like to cling to the past (and I'm sure to get plenty of TDs to prove it), but I'm part of a significant majority of our population who would love to cut all ties.

Answer 3

I'm happy we still have the Queen. she is part of our history and one can never have a dictator with a queen. I know some Aussies don't see the point of having her still. Australia and Britain have a huge history together so respect here of course. I have lived in Britain cold miserable weather and it's not the place for me now but I'm really happy I've had the experience. Opened my eyes to a lot of Knowledge in many areas. So many English live in Australia and we all get on as one.  

Answer 4

I'd just like to say I'm British, and I love the Australians :P I wish there was more we could do to erase the past, but the Ozzers are a good bunch, and i'm hoping we're forgiven really. I think of the Ozzers as the closest group of people to the British, u no much closer that the American's at any rate! I know the question wasn't aimed at me, but i was on my way to ask a question and well i felt like sayin something.

The Queen bonds us all, but i don't get why you guys keep her myself. It's great that you do, don't get me wrong, but surely she gets in the way of ur jurisdiction and election system? Ah i dont no as I said, i'm british, and ive only visited Australia on holiday :P

Answer 5

I don't have any problem with Great Britain and neither do most people I know.

Answer 6

I have no problems with Great Britain as a county, but they do annoy me when they brag about rule Britannia and how Australia is their ***** and we are all convict scum yes that does p**s me off abit. That's why I cant wait when we become a republic then we are set free and wont have to put up with their bull shiite.

Answer 7

I don't think there's any ill feeling between us.  A great sporting rivalry, and unfortunately you're beating us at the Olympics at the moment (we'll just have to get stuck into you in the cricket again..LOL) We call you guys Poms, but with no malice intended, in fact it's almost an endearment. :O)  I've been to England and loved it and the people were fantastic, very friendly, helpful and with a sense of humour to match our own.  

Answer 8

I don't really understand what your on about because I thought Aussies and Brits got on pretty good i don't hold any ill will towards the British people.