To renew democracy, let’s start by bringing meaning to the ministerial oath of office

The swearing-in ceremony for new ministers is a seminal part of the modest pageantry of Australian democracy. After an election, soon-to-be ministers arrive polished and dignified, some unusually and even surprisingly so. Grown women and men sit patiently in school-children-like rows as the governor-general invites each to take the oath or affirmation of office.

After the ceremony, a class photo is taken. In it, the mask of solemnity sometimes slips to reveal a very human excitement. This is understandable. After all, these few people have arrived at the pinnacle of Australian executive governance.