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Queen replaced as RBA unveils new theme for $5 note

Queen Elizabeth II will no longer appear on the $5 note.

Queen Elizabeth II will no longer appear on the $5 note. Photo: RBA

The theme for Australia’s new $5 banknote has been unveiled, and it will not feature the late Queen or King Charles.

The updated fiver will honour the “enduring emotional, spiritual, and physical connection” of First Nations peoples to Country.

The selection of the Indigenous theme follows an Australia-wide campaign which led to 2100 nominations from the public.

The concept will guide the creation of a new design, which will feature artwork from a First Nations artist.

The portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, who has been on the note since 1992, will be removed and not replaced with King Charles.

The reverse side will continue to feature the Australian Parliament.

$5 note

Parliament House will still feature on the back. Photo: RBA

The RBA said an important context for the Indigenous connection was the overturning of the concept of terra nullius.

“This action recognised the existence of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s relationship to Country for thousands of years.

“The artist is invited to reflect how this decision has shaped a positive future for First Nations peoples.”

Also key to the theme was First Nations communities’ contribution to the restoration and conservation of our environment.

“There is an opportunity for all Australians to learn from Australia’s original stewards on how to nurture and protect our fragile world.”

Topics: money
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