Girrawheen student says constitution should protect human rights

GIRRAWHEEN Senior High School student Pavle Petkovic is joining about 120 students for a constitutional convention in Canberra this week.

Year 11 and 12 students from around Australia are attending the 24th National Schools Constitutional Convention at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House from March 19 to 21.

This year’s topic, “A new constitutional preamble for Australia”, will give students an opportunity to explore the present Constitution and whether a preamble is required.

A range of speakers will discuss the issues with students.

The outcomes of debate will be tabled in Parliament and recorded in Hansard.

As a national delegate, Pavle travelled in a group of 15 students from WA to contribute to the debate.

“I believe that every constitution – whether in Australia or international – should prioritise the protection and sanctity of individual human rights,” Pavle said.

“Thus, the biggest issue in terms of the constitution in my opinion is that cases still occur where an individual’s most basic human rights are not protected by our constitution – an issue which I believe must be addressed, to ensure that each citizen is able to live comfortably, safely and peacefully.”

Pavle said while he was pursuing a career pathway in medicine rather than politics, he did hope to participate as a voting citizen when old enough.

“Additionally, I aspire to make the most of every opportunity presented for me to participate in political functions such as this one,” he said.

“I believe it will allow me to gain a broader understanding of the way in which our country’s political system operates.”