There are many countries in the world where religion, for better or for worse, is the skeleton around which the body is formed. Australia is not one of them. Another way a culture is formed is through rituals, which, in a secular society, must lack a certain edge. Anzac Day ceremonies are the closest we have to a uniquely Australian ritual. January 26 still fails to make a major statement to most Australians.
Most countries also rely on their leaders and warriors to help give the society definition.
This is not a role that John Howard fills comfortably. Our warriors are footballers and other sportsmen, who all too often act with no honor or dignity on or off the field. Schools also help shape the culture, or to be more accurate, they have the potential to shape it. There's an endless debate about whether they should influence the society or reflect it, whether to lead or to follow. I don't find too many that are leading anyone anywhere.