FitzSimons new republic movement head

Author Peter FitzSimons is the new head of the organisation leading the campaign for an Australian republic.

FitzSimons replaces former West Australian premier Geoff Gallop as chair of the Australian Republican Movement.

"I think most Australians agree that there is a fundamental injustice at the heart of our system when a young boy or girl growing up in this great country can aspire to just about any job except the one that should be the most representative of all - head of state," he said in a statement.

FitzSimons said he will lead a renewed campaign for an Australian head of state.

The ARM is calling for a non-binding vote - a plebiscite - by 2020 on the question of whether Australians want one of their own in the job.

"The reaction to the knighting of Prince Philip earlier this year demonstrates how deeply republican sentiment runs in this country," he said.