Republic debate flares as Australia mourns its longest-serving monarch Queen Elizabeth II

Governor general says Queen a symbol of stability, inspiration and servant leadership' as PM calls 1954 visit a defining moment in our nation's history

The death of Queen Elizabeth II, and the ascension of King Charles III as sovereign, has reanimated republican debate in Australia, as the country formally pays tribute to its longest-serving monarch, a symbol of stability, inspiration and servant leadership".

Australia's governor general, David Hurley, described the late monarch as an example of selfless service, devotion to duty and compassion".