Politicians and public officials in Australia and the U.S. say it is important for both nations to continue building stronger relationships.
On Monday, eight Australian government leaders visited Frankfort as part of a cultural and political exchange program. The delegation visited the Kentucky History Center, toured the Capitol, ate lunch at Serafini’s and were made Kentucky Colonels.
The delegation hosted by the American Council of Young Political Leaders and the Australian Political Exchange Program was led by Jaye Radisich, a member of Parliament from Western Australia.
She’s a member of the Australian Labor Party and at the age of 26, is the youngest woman ever elected to Parliament. Radisich said although Australia and the U.S. are already partners on a number of issues, like trade and security, it’s important to insure the next generation of leaders shares a common understanding.
"Politics and government are dynamic," she said.
Although President Bush and Australian Prime Minister John Howard already have a good relationship, Radisich said they wouldn’t always be in power. Exchange programs like this one, she said, will help create personal relationships between future leaders.
"If issues come up that might be contentious between the two countries, we need to have an established dialogue between the people holding those offices," she said.
The delegation also met with Secretary of State Trey Grayson and Auditor Crit Luallen. Radisich said Grayson taught the delegation a lot about the nuances of government and politics in Kentucky.
In Australia, the governing party in Parliament selects the head of government, so the American Electoral College was a difficult concept to understand, Radisich said. The prime minister selects cabinet ministers in Australia, instead of being elected by the people, as they are in the U.S.
Australia is still considered part of the Commonwealth of Nations, and the Queen of England is the official head of state. Radisich said she hopes that one-day, an Australian will fill that role.
"I think it would be a great thing we could learn from you, and it something I aspire to for my country," she said. "But, not all the delegates may agree with that."
Grayson said the visitors were eager to learn about elections in Kentucky and about the current political situation. A number of important policies, including the secret ballot, have come from other countries like Australia, Grayson said.
"It’s always a good idea to ask questions and share ideas," Grayson said.
Although Australia and the U. S. share a similar historic background, Grayson said it’s important to continue building good relationships.
"I think they will go back home to Australia with a good impression of Kentucky and that can only help," he said.
The delegation also went to Keeneland and took in Thunder Over Louisville. Radisich said she has been made to feel very welcome during her visit.
"It has been the opportunity of a lifetime," she said. "The character of the people in this state is very warm, and we are very grateful for their hospitality."