Westralia Secession: A Century-Old Dream Resurfaces in Western Australia
In 1933, Western Australia voted overwhelmingly in a referendum to become an independent nation, with 66% of the population supporting secession under the slogan "Westralia shall be free." However, this aspiration was thwarted by constitutional complexities and the outbreak of the Second World War. Nearly a century later, the idea of Westralia independence is being revisited, fueled by contemporary grievances and outlined in a new book titled Secession by Western Australia.
Modern Sentiments and Economic Arguments
According to the book's authors, Professor Gigi Foster, an economist at UNSW, and Julian Gillespie, a former barrister, support for secession has been bolstered by recent events. They cite the "collateral harms" from Canberra's Covid-19 response, perceived under-taxation of WA's natural resources sector, and rising living costs as key drivers. Foster notes a "generally positive, if hesitant" view among Western Australians, who feel a distinct identity separate from the eastern states and believe they have been mistreated by the federal government, located 3,000 kilometres away.
Gillespie argues that the states have "grown up" since federation 125 years ago, rendering the federal layer of governance expensive and unnecessary. He points to doubled energy bills since 2019 and unaffordable housing as evidence of this inefficiency. The book proposes a radical economic model: a 20% tax on natural resource miners and oil and gas producers, which would fund a new republic with zero income tax for businesses and individuals. This plan draws comparisons to energy-rich nations like Qatar and Norway, where citizens enjoy high quality of life without personal income taxes.
Government Opposition and Practical Challenges
The Albanese government has strongly rejected the secession idea, with Patrick Gorman, the assistant minister to the prime minister and federal member for Perth, labelling it "idiotic." Gorman warns that secession would leave WA with a weaker economy, no defence force, and waste billions on bureaucratic adjustments. He emphasises that global conflicts, such as those in the Middle East, highlight the strength of a united Australia.
Historians and experts echo these concerns. Associate Professor Benjamin Mountford notes that WA's secession calls date back to its initial reluctance to join the federation, driven by its unique economy, sparse population, and European connections. Dr David Lee from UNSW adds that while independence agitation often rises during economic weakness, WA's practical ties—including mining dominance, defence arrangements, and social security systems—make secession "very difficult to surmount." He observes that despite Covid-19 tensions, there is currently no significant push for independence.
Constitutional Pathways and Future Prospects
The authors claim that legislative changes, particularly the 1986 Australia Act, might provide a unilateral pathway for WA to secede, despite the constitution describing the federation as "indissoluble." However, any referendum on secession could only occur after the next state election in early 2029, indicating a lengthy process. Foster views the book as a "gauntlet thrown down," suggesting WA could become a "beacon" for eastern states, though she acknowledges the need for extensive public consultation.
Gorman criticises the proposal as representing fringe views and using secession as cover for "radical rightwing tax policies." He argues it offers false hope to those seeking isolation. In contrast, the authors frame their call for self-governance as an embrace of "Australianness," driven by loyalty to ideals they believe the current system betrays. As debates continue, the Westralia secession movement remains a contentious topic, blending historical nostalgia with modern political and economic realities.
