The National Symbols

The Australian National Flag is Australia‟ s foremost national symbol. It was first

flown in 1901 and has become one of the expressions of the Australian identity and pride. It has three elements on a blue background: the Union Jack, the Commonwealth Star and the Southern Cross. The Union Jack in the upper left corner is connected with the history of the British settlement. Below the Union Jack is the white Commonwealth or Federation Star. It has seven points representing the unity of the six states and the territories of the Commonwealth of Australia.

The Commonwealth Coat of Arms is the formal symbol of the Commonwealth of

Australia that signifies the Commonwealth authority and ownership.

„Advance Australia Fair‟ is the national anthem of Australia. Usually „God Save the

Queen' is played at the start of Royal functions and „Advance Australia Fair' at the end.

ADVANCE AUSTRALIA FAIR

Australians all let us rejoice,

For we are young and free;

We've golden soil and wealth for toil;

Our home is girt by sea;

Our land abounds in nature's gifts

Of beauty rich and rare;

In history's page, let every stage

Advance Australia Fair.

In joyful strains then let us sing,

Advance Australia Fair.

Beneath our radiant Southern Cross

We'll toil with hearts and hands;

To make this Commonwealth of ours

Renowned of all the lands;

For those who've come across the seas

We've boundless plains to share;

With courage let us all combine

To Advance Australia Fair.

In joyful strains then let us sing,