The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has revealed a new design for an Australian $5 note to celebrate Indigenous heritage.
The new $5 note will sport a historic design, shifting away from British monarchy traditions.
Ever since 1992, the smallest Aussie note has carried the portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. Now, the reimagined denomination will not feature King Charles III, making a significant departure from past designs.
The decision follows a public consultation process, with more than 2,100 individuals proposed for the next design.
As per the RBA, the new $5 note will highlight Indigenous culture, acknowledging the deep and ongoing connection of First Nations peoples to the land.
Leading up to the decision, the RBA collaborated with First Nations organisations nationwide, inviting them to submit ideas for the new theme.
The redesign panel featured representatives from First Nations communities, along with members from the RBA and Note Printing Australia.
The RBA informed the new theme will acknowledge the deep bond between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and their land.
The theme will be called “Connection to Country”, focussing on the Indigenous people’s connections to country.
“Country is more than just land to our people—it includes the waters and the sky,” the RBA stated.
“The major focus will be to highlight the recognition of First Nations communities’ vital role in restoring and protecting the environment.”
“In acknowledging this connection and the responsibility of caring for Country, the theme will be inclusive. While the understanding of Country may differ across communities, everything remains interconnected,” the RBA added.
Back in February 2023, the RBA confirmed that King Charles would not appear on the new Australian $5 note after the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
The decision from the RBA sparked backlash from some, including Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, who criticised it as “another attack on our systems, our society, and institutions.”
While the final look is yet to be revealed, the move is being hailed as a step toward greater recognition.
This significant change in design aligns with broader discussions on Australia’s national identity.
The RBA also noted that before finalising the decision, those making submissions were asked to view this connection to country from the perspective of “overturning of the concept of terra nullius”.
The newly designed Australian $5 note is set to enter circulation in a few years, and the reverse side of the note will still feature the Australian Parliament.
