Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom said Monday that her affection for Australia would remain regardless of what the future might bring in terms of the republic debate.

She said she respected the outcome of Australia's last November referendum, in which the electorate refused to establish the country as a republic, and would continue to faithfully serve as Queen of Australia.

"I have always made it clear that the future of the monarchy in Australia is an issue for you the Australian people and you alone to decide by democratic and constitutional means," she told a state luncheon in Sydney.

During the state luncheon hosted by Australian Prime Minister John Howard and New South Wales state Premier Bob Carr, the Queen said it was her privilege and pleasure to serve as "Queen of Australia."

"But we must look forward as well as back," she said. " Australia has always been a country on the move and will go on being so."

"Whatever the future may bring my lasting respect and deep affection for Australia and Australians everywhere will remain as strong as ever," she said.