Australia is ready for a Republic and the Rudd Government should stop delaying and hold a plebiscite at the next election said Australian Greens leader Bob Brown in Canberra today.

Last year Senator Brown introduced the Plebiscite for an Australian Republic Bill 2008 for a plebiscite to be held at the 2010 election.

The question to be submitted to electors outlined in the Bill is "Do you support Australia becoming a republic?"

"There is no point delaying until after the election as suggested by Kevin Rudd," said Senator Brown.

Senator Brown also called for a referendum to federally recognise Local Government in the constitution, which would enable it to receive direct federal funding rather than relying on the states.