Seven out of 10 Australians support pledging allegiance to Australia and its people, rather than to the Queen, suggesting republican sentiment remains strong even though the movement for change has stalled.

The result of a survey commissioned by the Australian Republican Movement, plus a surge in membership since the election of the Abbott government, have given republicans heart and prompted the ARM to open a new phase in its campaign.

Australian support waning: Queen Elizabeth II. Credit:Getty Images

Twenty years ago a different pledge was introduced at Australian citizenship ceremonies. It replaced the pledge of allegiance to the Queen with "I pledge my loyalty to Australia and its people, whose democratic beliefs I share, whose rights and liberties I respect and whose laws I will uphold and obey".