FED:Gillard rejects anthem alternative

AAP General News (Australia)
02-11-2011
FED:Gillard rejects anthem alternative

CANBERRA, Feb 11 AAP - Prime Minister Julia Gillard won't be backing former Victorian
premier Jeff Kennett's choice for a new national anthem.

But at least Mr Kennett didn't propose the Hawthorn football club song, the ardent
Western Bulldogs supporter joked.

Mr Kennett has nominated the song I am Australian as an alternative to Advance Australia Fair.

Ms Gillard said she understood the emotional resonance of the song, but she didn't
agree that it should replace the national anthem.

The prime minister most recently heard a modified version of 'I am Australian' on Sunday
during a memorial ceremony for the Black Saturday bushfires.

She described it as a song of "great emotional warmth and attachment" for Australians.

"I am at least relieved that he (Mr Kennett) hasn't suggested the Hawthorn club song."

AAP ah/rl/jl

KEYWORD: ANTHEM

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