Historical Encyclopedia
The national symbols of Australia are not just signs of sovereignty, but also important elements of national identity. The emblems, flag, and coat of arms of the country, as well as the symbols of the states and territories, reflect the nation’s history and the diversity of its cultural heritage. The development of Australia’s national symbols is closely connected with historical events, starting from the colonial period and continuing to the present day. In this article, we will explore the main stages in the formation of Australia’s symbolism and its significant elements.
At the beginning of the colonization of Australia by the British Empire, the flags under which the ships of the First Fleet sailed in 1788 reflected the symbolism of the metropolis. The British "Union Jack" was used on the ships, which later became the official symbol of all Australian colonies. Each state during the colonial period had its own flags based on British designs, but included emblems or colors representing specific regions.
The idea of creating a national flag arose with the formation of the Commonwealth of Australia in 1901. As a result of a national competition, a flag was chosen that included three main symbols: the "Union Jack" in the upper left corner, symbolizing the connection with Great Britain; a white seven-pointed star, known as the "Star of the Commonwealth"; and the Southern Cross constellation, symbolizing Australia’s location in the Southern Hemisphere. This flag became a symbol of federation and was officially adopted as the national flag of Australia in 1903.
Initially, the Star of the Commonwealth had six points, representing the six states of Australia. In 1908, a seventh point was added to the star, symbolizing the territories of Australia, such as the Northern Territory and the Australian Capital Territory. Today, the flag remains unchanged and is used as the official symbol of the country, representing both the history and cultural values of Australia.
The first coat of arms of Australia was approved by King Edward VII in 1908. It featured the image of a shield supported by a kangaroo and an emu—two animals symbolizing the uniqueness of Australian fauna. On the shield were depicted the emblems of the six states of Australia, and at the top was the Star of the Commonwealth.
These animals were chosen for a reason: the kangaroo and emu cannot move backward, symbolizing progress and moving forward. Thus, the coat of arms conveyed the idea of striving for the development and prosperity of a new nation. This coat of arms became the official symbol and was actively used on documents and government emblems.
In 1912, the coat of arms was modified and approved by King George V. The new coat of arms included an updated shield with the emblems of each state: New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, and Tasmania. The kangaroo and emu remained symbols supporting the shield, but their images were altered to better reflect national characteristics.
Above the shield is a seven-pointed star, symbolizing the Commonwealth of Australia. The coat of arms was adopted as the official symbol of the country and continues to be used in government institutions and official documents. It has become one of the most important symbols of national identity, reflecting the unity of the Australian states.
Initially, Australia used "God Save the Queen" as its anthem, emphasizing the connection with the British Empire. However, over time, there arose a need for a national anthem that reflected the cultural and national characteristics of the Australian people.
In the 1970s, the Australian government held a competition for a new national anthem, and the song "Advance Australia Fair," written by Peter Dodds McCormick in 1878, won. In 1984, "Advance Australia Fair" was officially adopted as the national anthem of Australia, replacing "God Save the Queen." This anthem expresses patriotism and love for the homeland; its lyrics emphasize the natural wealth and unity of the Australian people.
In 2021, the Australian government made a small change to the anthem's lyrics. The second line of the anthem was changed from "For we are young and free" to "For we are one and free," emphasizing the idea of unity and respect for the Indigenous peoples of Australia. This amendment was a symbolic step towards reconciliation with the Aboriginal peoples and recognized their role in the country's history.
The Star of the Commonwealth represents a seven-pointed star symbolizing the six states and territories of Australia. It appears on the flag and coat of arms of the country and symbolizes the federation and unity of the Australian state. Since its inception, the Star of the Commonwealth has become an integral part of national symbolism, highlighting Australia’s status as an independent nation.
The Southern Cross constellation, depicted on the flag of Australia, is an important astronomical and cultural symbol. This constellation can only be seen from the Southern Hemisphere, making it unique to Australia. The Southern Cross embodies the geographical location of the country and is a symbol of national pride. Australians often associate the Southern Cross with reliability and resilience, as well as the natural beauty of the southern latitudes.
The kangaroo and emu, depicted on Australia’s coat of arms, symbolize the unique fauna of the country and its striving for progress. These animals have become unofficial symbols of Australia and are often used as emblems on coins, souvenirs, and the logos of various organizations. The kangaroo is also featured on Australian currency, underscoring its importance to national identity.
The golden wattle, or "Acacia pycnantha," is the national flower of Australia. In 1988, it was officially recognized as a symbol of the country, and its flowers are depicted on the coat of arms. Every year on September 1st, Wattle Day is celebrated, when Australians decorate their homes and streets with yellow wattle flowers in honor of spring and prosperity.
Opal, officially recognized as the national gemstone of Australia in 1993, has become a symbol of the country’s natural wealth. Australia produces about 95% of the world’s opals, and this gemstone is highly valued for its unique color play. Opal symbolizes the natural resources of the country and its economic development, as well as embodying the beauty and diversity of the Australian land.
Although "God Save the Queen" is no longer the official anthem of Australia, it continues to be used on special occasions when a member of the British royal family is present or in official ceremonies related to the monarchy. This underscores Australia’s historical connection to Great Britain and respect for British heritage. While modern Australia strives for cultural independence, the memory of the royal past remains a part of its national symbolism.
The history of Australia’s national symbols reflects its journey from a colony of the British Empire to an independent nation with a unique cultural identity. The flag, coat of arms, anthem, and national symbols of Australia tell the story of its rich history, natural wealth, and commitment to unity. These symbols continue to inspire Australians, uniting them in their pursuit of a future where respect for history and cultural diversity remain key values.