The Whitlam Dismissal

The Whitlam Dismissal occurred in 1975 when Australia's Governor-General, Sir John Kerr, abruptly dismissed Prime Minister Gough Whitlam's government. This unprecedented act followed a political deadlock over budget approvals, with Whitlam's government unable to secure funding. Kerr's decision was highly controversial, seen by many as an overreach of constitutional authority, raising concerns about the balance of power between the government and the monarchy. The event highlighted tensions in Australia's political system and remains a significant moment in the nation's constitutional history.