National symbols of Australia

National symbols of Australia are the symbols that are used to represent what is unique about the nation, reflecting different aspects of its cultural life and history.

Official symbols

Symbol Image Adopted Remarks
Flag Flag of Australia
3 September 1901 The flag includes the Southern Cross, Union Flag and Commonwealth Star.
Coat of arms Coat of arms of Australia
19 September 1912 Granted by King George V; an earlier design was granted by King Edward VII on 7 May 1908, and it continued to be used in some contexts, notably appearing on the sixpenny coin until 1966.
National anthem Advance Australia Fair 19 April 1984
National colours Green and gold 19 April 1984 Green and gold are also the traditional team colours of Australian national sporting teams.
National Floral Emblem Golden Wattle
Acacia pycnantha
19 August 1988 It is a tree which flowers in late winter and spring
National Gemstone Opal
27 July 1992 Opal production was worth $71.4 million to Australia in 2003 and supports many communities in New South Wales, South Australia and Queensland.

Unofficial emblems

Symbol Image Remarks
National animals Red Kangaroo
Macropus rufus
Unofficial national mammal emblems
National bird Emu
Dromaius novaehollandiae
Unofficial national Bird emblems
National personification Boxing Kangaroo Unofficial national personifications

Australian Icons

Icons of Australian culture are almost as well known by Australians and visitors as unofficial symbols.

Image Remarks
Sydney Opera House
Open since 1973, it has come to represent 'Australia'.
Uluru
Uluru is one of Australia’s most recognisable natural icons
Akubra Hat
Sydney Harbour Bridge

External links