For decades, the face of the reigning British monarch has constantly featured on Australia’s currency notes in what could be seen as a nod to the country’s roots and status as a Commonwealth nation.

However, in a significant and sudden shift, it has been revealed that the tradition will be brought to an end, with a design honouring First Australians taking the place of King Charles III.

‘The Reserve Bank has decided to update the $5 banknote to feature a new design that honours the culture and history of the First Australians,’ the Reserve Bank said in a statement.

‘This new design will replace the portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The other side of the $5 banknote will continue to feature the Australian Parliament.’

The RBA stressed that the move was done in consultation with the government.

‘I think this is a good opportunity to strike a good balance between the monarch on the coins and the First Nations design on the fiver,’ Treasurer Jim Chalmers said.

‘But the $5 note will say more about our history and our heritage, our country and I see that as a good thing.’

A design to be determined through consultations with Indigenous Australians will soon be seen on $5 notes. Image Credit: Shutterstock

Opposition to the change

The move has earned criticism, most notably stemming from the Opposition.

Liberal Party leader Peter Dutton dismissed the development as nothing but a progressive whim in an interview.

‘I think it is another attack on our systems, our society, and institutions.’

Opposition senator and monarchist Dean Smith, meanwhile, said the move was a missed opportunity.

‘A design incorporating both our new King and an appreciation for Australia's Indigenous heritage and culture would be a better and more unifying approach,’ he said.

‘This decision misses a unique opportunity for both the RBA and Anthony Albanese to merge these two important aspects of Australia's story.’

‘Although not totally unexpected, breaking with this long tradition will come as a disappointment to many Australians, who have never known anything different.’

The Sydney Morning Herald notes that the change passed through the current RBA board before it reached the government.

New $5 note out in ‘a number of years’

Despite the development, Aussies shouldn’t expect to see the new design anytime soon.

‘The Bank will consult with First Australians in designing the $5 banknote. The new banknote will take a number of years to be designed and printed,’ the RBA said.

‘In the meantime, the current $5 banknote will continue to be issued. It will be able to be used even after the new banknote is issued.’

This development, if final, would make the late Queen Elizabeth the last royal to be featured on Australian banknotes.

The tradition of featuring the reigning monarch first started in 1923, with King George V’s portrait appearing on all Australian bank notes up to 1953.


A sign of the times?

It wouldn’t be too far-fetched to say that this change in the $5 note is a sign of Australia’s widening break away from the British throne.

After the Queen’s passing last year conversations sprung up on whether or not it was time for the country to become a republic.

The Albanese government was earlier reported to have its eyes on a referendum for the matter — but only after it’s finished with another referendum on an the indigenous voice to parliament.

Many supporters have decried the nation’s long-standing ties with the British throne, seeing it as an impediment to a truly independent Australia.

However, others see no reason for such a shift in something they see has worked for the country so far.

The late Queen Elizabeth’s passing and King Charles’ ascension have sparked calls in Australia to shift to a republic. Image Credit: Shutterstock

Still, future moves towards a republican Australia aren’t guaranteed victory despite a sitting government that seems more open to the idea.

In 1999, a referendum was held on the same issue which resulted in a crushing defeat for the republican movement.

Another thing to take note of is public sentiment — does the average Aussie even want a republic?

Well, various polls reveal a mixed picture.

A poll conducted by The Guardian (right around the Queen’s passing, it must be noted) revealed that 43 per cent of Australians supported a republican form of government, with 20 per cent saying they were unsure and the remaining 37 per cent saying they opposed it.

However, in another poll conducted by market research company Roy Morgan around the same time, 60 per cent of Aussies wanted the monarchy to stay, while the remaining 40 per cent opposed the idea.

And of course, here in the SDC, an overwhelming majority — 72 per cent — said they didn’t think Australia should become a republic.

Something to think about, eh?

Key Takeaways

• The Reserve Bank has announced that a design honouring the culture and history of the First Australians will replace Queen Elizabeth’s image on the $5 note, ending a century-long tradition of the monarchy appearing on Australia’s cash.
• Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the government supported the Reserve Bank’s decision, while Opposition leader Peter Dutton accused the government of leading the change and labelled it as an 'attack on our systems'.
• The RBA said it consulted the federal government before making its decision and will now consult with First Australians in the design of the new note, which will take a number of years to manufacture.

On that note, perhaps as something of a consolation, Aussie currency isn’t entirely saying goodbye to the monarchy as King Charles III will still be featured on our coins.

If you’re excited to see King Charles’ visage on your change, however, you might also have to do some waiting.

In the meantime, you might want to stay updated on plans for his upcoming coronation on May 6.

So, what are your thoughts on this announced change to our $5 notes? Is it something you agree with, or do you share sentiments with Dutton?

If you’re in favour — who or what do you think should replace the royals on the note? Popular suggestions in the past have included Steve Irwin, Paul Hogan and Shane Warne.

Members, please take note that some of you will have differing opinions on this decision and we want to remind everyone that it is okay to have opposing opinions, but it is not okay to attack someone for having an opposing opinion to you.

Remember, to be kind first and foremost. We will never endorse bullying behaviour.

Tell us your opinion below!

Source: YouTube/9 News Australia​

 

[MHM]

For decades, the face of the reigning British monarch has constantly featured on Australia’s currency notes in what could be seen as a nod to the country’s roots and status as a Commonwealth nation.

However, in a significant and sudden shift, it has been revealed that the tradition will be brought to an end, with a design honouring First Australians taking the place of King Charles III.

‘The Reserve Bank has decided to update the $5 banknote to feature a new design that honours the culture and history of the First Australians,’ the Reserve Bank said in a statement.

‘This new design will replace the portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The other side of the $5 banknote will continue to feature the Australian Parliament.’

The RBA stressed that the move was done in consultation with the government.

‘I think this is a good opportunity to strike a good balance between the monarch on the coins and the First Nations design on the fiver,’ Treasurer Jim Chalmers said.

‘But the $5 note will say more about our history and our heritage, our country and I see that as a good thing.’

View attachment 12767

A design to be determined through consultations with Indigenous Australians will soon be seen on $5 notes. Image Credit: Shutterstock

Opposition to the change

The move has earned criticism, most notably stemming from the Opposition.

Liberal Party leader Peter Dutton dismissed the development as nothing but a progressive whim in an interview.

‘I think it is another attack on our systems, our society, and institutions.’

Opposition senator and monarchist Dean Smith, meanwhile, said the move was a missed opportunity.

‘A design incorporating both our new King and an appreciation for Australia's Indigenous heritage and culture would be a better and more unifying approach,’ he said.

‘This decision misses a unique opportunity for both the RBA and Anthony Albanese to merge these two important aspects of Australia's story.’

‘Although not totally unexpected, breaking with this long tradition will come as a disappointment to many Australians, who have never known anything different.’

The Sydney Morning Herald notes that the change passed through the current RBA board before it reached the government.

New $5 note out in ‘a number of years’

Despite the development, Aussies shouldn’t expect to see the new design anytime soon.

‘The Bank will consult with First Australians in designing the $5 banknote. The new banknote will take a number of years to be designed and printed,’ the RBA said.

‘In the meantime, the current $5 banknote will continue to be issued. It will be able to be used even after the new banknote is issued.’

This development, if final, would make the late Queen Elizabeth the last royal to be featured on Australian banknotes.

The tradition of featuring the reigning monarch first started in 1923, with King George V’s portrait appearing on all Australian bank notes up to 1953.


A sign of the times?

It wouldn’t be too far-fetched to say that this change in the $5 note is a sign of Australia’s widening break away from the British throne.

After the Queen’s passing last year conversations sprung up on whether or not it was time for the country to become a republic.

The Albanese government was earlier reported to have its eyes on a referendum for the matter — but only after it’s finished with another referendum on an the indigenous voice to parliament.

Many supporters have decried the nation’s long-standing ties with the British throne, seeing it as an impediment to a truly independent Australia.

However, others see no reason for such a shift in something they see has worked for the country so far.

View attachment 12768

The late Queen Elizabeth’s passing and King Charles’ ascension have sparked calls in Australia to shift to a republic. Image Credit: Shutterstock

Still, future moves towards a republican Australia aren’t guaranteed victory despite a sitting government that seems more open to the idea.

In 1999, a referendum was held on the same issue which resulted in a crushing defeat for the republican movement.

Another thing to take note of is public sentiment — does the average Aussie even want a republic?

Well, various polls reveal a mixed picture.

A poll conducted by The Guardian (right around the Queen’s passing, it must be noted) revealed that 43 per cent of Australians supported a republican form of government, with 20 per cent saying they were unsure and the remaining 37 per cent saying they opposed it.

However, in another poll conducted by market research company Roy Morgan around the same time, 60 per cent of Aussies wanted the monarchy to stay, while the remaining 40 per cent opposed the idea.

And of course, here in the SDC, an overwhelming majority — 72 per cent — said they didn’t think Australia should become a republic.

Something to think about, eh?

Key Takeaways

• The Reserve Bank has announced that a design honouring the culture and history of the First Australians will replace Queen Elizabeth’s image on the $5 note, ending a century-long tradition of the monarchy appearing on Australia’s cash.
• Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the government supported the Reserve Bank’s decision, while Opposition leader Peter Dutton accused the government of leading the change and labelled it as an 'attack on our systems'.
• The RBA said it consulted the federal government before making its decision and will now consult with First Australians in the design of the new note, which will take a number of years to manufacture.

On that note, perhaps as something of a consolation, Aussie currency isn’t entirely saying goodbye to the monarchy as King Charles III will still be featured on our coins.

If you’re excited to see King Charles’ visage on your change, however, you might also have to do some waiting.

In the meantime, you might want to stay updated on plans for his upcoming coronation on May 6.

So, what are your thoughts on this announced change to our $5 notes? Is it something you agree with, or do you share sentiments with Dutton?

If you’re in favour — who or what do you think should replace the royals on the note? Popular suggestions in the past have included Steve Irwin, Paul Hogan and Shane Warne.

Members, please take note that some of you will have differing opinions on this decision and we want to remind everyone that it is okay to have opposing opinions, but it is not okay to attack someone for having an opposing opinion to you.

Remember, to be kind first and foremost. We will never endorse bullying behaviour.

Tell us your opinion below!

Source: YouTube/9 News Australia​

The presence of an image of the monarch on the note of first denomination is a convention which should not have been dismissed without some form of community consultation. Although there has been some reference to the RBA board making the decision, it is hard for most of us to believe that the decision was taken without some form of direction by the government.

 

[Ricci]

If the monarch is not to be on the $5 note any more why does the space have to be another person? Why can't it be a thing, or a place? Something that says Australia?

 

[ColMack]

I may be wrong but I thought they said the new $5 note would have indigenous images, which is fine by me because that is 100% Australian. I must say as my own personal opinion I do not recognise Charles as the King, he and his wife are both divorcees and are NOT entitled to lead the Commonwealth. William is the only true inheritor of the title. I have been a true Royalist my entire life but no more. Charles has manipulated to change the rules to suit himself. Please be aware these are simply my opinion.

 

[Suzanne rose]

While Queen Elizabeth was on our money I was OK to just leave it ,but since she has passed I've asked why should we be involved with The Royal family ?
It's time we stood and honoured our own.

Why not have an unsung hero on our money eg Fred Hollows even though he was born in New Zealand he lived and loved Australia . He did so much for people's sight both In Australia and overseas

You also have Don Bradman who brought Australian Cricket to another level....all young boys wanted to be like Don Bradman even many years later.

There are so many worthy Australian candidates to be on our money rather than an unworthy English King

 

[Suzanne rose]

I may be wrong but I thought they said the new $5 note would have indigenous images, which is fine by me because that is 100% Australian. I must say as my own personal opinion I do not recognise Charles as the King, he and his wife are both divorcees and are NOT entitled to lead the Commonwealth. William is the only true inheritor of the title. I have been a true Royalist my entire life but no more. Charles has manipulated to change the rules to suit himself. Please be aware these are simply my opinion.

I totally agree and I think it's this reason the Queen never abdicated

 

[Penny4]

People are flat out using a $5 note or any cash these days in lieu of a plastic card, so I don't think it really matters.
I 'm open for Australia being a Republic, however I'm not sure how it will work.
Won't be happy if we become like America and have a President with all the debacles that happen over there.

 

[michaelcowan2]

Personally, I would like to see something representing and saluting both our first peoples and our commonwealth associations. Divorced or not, I have no problem seeing King Charles appear on our $5 note, and alongside an image of suitable first peoples' person. As King, Charles is doing a pretty good job to date, meeting the change and challenges of a 21st century world.

 

[JKD]

While Australia is part of the Commonwealth, I feel it disrespectful not to have King Charles on the note. I don't think anybody has the right to change tradition. Surely they could incorporate the recognition of First Australians as well as the King? I am not impressed.

 

[Capsam]

Australia will become a Republic. This should not be about bashing the British Monarchy, their “dysfunctionality” or British colonisation. We CANNOT live in the past. Penny Wong just used a visit to Britain to remind migrant Australians of other countries of their subjugation to British oppression Like her grandmother! Trying to win the migrant vote for the voice I guess!

 

[Capsam]

Lidia Thorpe is delighted that there will be no monarch on the $5 note! She is looking forward to a TREATY REPUBLIC. Her words, not mine! So what does that mean? In becoming a Republic, Australia must not just throw out institutions JUST because they were introduced by the Brits! That would be childish. Most important is that there ACTUALLY has to be consultation with all people in this nation. We do not want a pre-ordained plan by politicians enacted with them deciding who will be our future Head of State! Labor will appoint one of their own or an Indigenous Elder from their current short list!

 

[MHM]

For decades, the face of the reigning British monarch has constantly featured on Australia’s currency notes in what could be seen as a nod to the country’s roots and status as a Commonwealth nation.

However, in a significant and sudden shift, it has been revealed that the tradition will be brought to an end, with a design honouring First Australians taking the place of King Charles III.

‘The Reserve Bank has decided to update the $5 banknote to feature a new design that honours the culture and history of the First Australians,’ the Reserve Bank said in a statement.

‘This new design will replace the portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The other side of the $5 banknote will continue to feature the Australian Parliament.’

The RBA stressed that the move was done in consultation with the government.

‘I think this is a good opportunity to strike a good balance between the monarch on the coins and the First Nations design on the fiver,’ Treasurer Jim Chalmers said.

‘But the $5 note will say more about our history and our heritage, our country and I see that as a good thing.’

View attachment 12767

A design to be determined through consultations with Indigenous Australians will soon be seen on $5 notes. Image Credit: Shutterstock

Opposition to the change

The move has earned criticism, most notably stemming from the Opposition.

Liberal Party leader Peter Dutton dismissed the development as nothing but a progressive whim in an interview.

‘I think it is another attack on our systems, our society, and institutions.’

Opposition senator and monarchist Dean Smith, meanwhile, said the move was a missed opportunity.

‘A design incorporating both our new King and an appreciation for Australia's Indigenous heritage and culture would be a better and more unifying approach,’ he said.

‘This decision misses a unique opportunity for both the RBA and Anthony Albanese to merge these two important aspects of Australia's story.’

‘Although not totally unexpected, breaking with this long tradition will come as a disappointment to many Australians, who have never known anything different.’

The Sydney Morning Herald notes that the change passed through the current RBA board before it reached the government.

New $5 note out in ‘a number of years’

Despite the development, Aussies shouldn’t expect to see the new design anytime soon.

‘The Bank will consult with First Australians in designing the $5 banknote. The new banknote will take a number of years to be designed and printed,’ the RBA said.

‘In the meantime, the current $5 banknote will continue to be issued. It will be able to be used even after the new banknote is issued.’

This development, if final, would make the late Queen Elizabeth the last royal to be featured on Australian banknotes.

The tradition of featuring the reigning monarch first started in 1923, with King George V’s portrait appearing on all Australian bank notes up to 1953.


A sign of the times?

It wouldn’t be too far-fetched to say that this change in the $5 note is a sign of Australia’s widening break away from the British throne.

After the Queen’s passing last year conversations sprung up on whether or not it was time for the country to become a republic.

The Albanese government was earlier reported to have its eyes on a referendum for the matter — but only after it’s finished with another referendum on an the indigenous voice to parliament.

Many supporters have decried the nation’s long-standing ties with the British throne, seeing it as an impediment to a truly independent Australia.

However, others see no reason for such a shift in something they see has worked for the country so far.

View attachment 12768

The late Queen Elizabeth’s passing and King Charles’ ascension have sparked calls in Australia to shift to a republic. Image Credit: Shutterstock

Still, future moves towards a republican Australia aren’t guaranteed victory despite a sitting government that seems more open to the idea.

In 1999, a referendum was held on the same issue which resulted in a crushing defeat for the republican movement.

Another thing to take note of is public sentiment — does the average Aussie even want a republic?

Well, various polls reveal a mixed picture.

A poll conducted by The Guardian (right around the Queen’s passing, it must be noted) revealed that 43 per cent of Australians supported a republican form of government, with 20 per cent saying they were unsure and the remaining 37 per cent saying they opposed it.

However, in another poll conducted by market research company Roy Morgan around the same time, 60 per cent of Aussies wanted the monarchy to stay, while the remaining 40 per cent opposed the idea.

And of course, here in the SDC, an overwhelming majority — 72 per cent — said they didn’t think Australia should become a republic.

Something to think about, eh?

Key Takeaways

• The Reserve Bank has announced that a design honouring the culture and history of the First Australians will replace Queen Elizabeth’s image on the $5 note, ending a century-long tradition of the monarchy appearing on Australia’s cash.
• Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the government supported the Reserve Bank’s decision, while Opposition leader Peter Dutton accused the government of leading the change and labelled it as an 'attack on our systems'.
• The RBA said it consulted the federal government before making its decision and will now consult with First Australians in the design of the new note, which will take a number of years to manufacture.

On that note, perhaps as something of a consolation, Aussie currency isn’t entirely saying goodbye to the monarchy as King Charles III will still be featured on our coins.

If you’re excited to see King Charles’ visage on your change, however, you might also have to do some waiting.

In the meantime, you might want to stay updated on plans for his upcoming coronation on May 6.

So, what are your thoughts on this announced change to our $5 notes? Is it something you agree with, or do you share sentiments with Dutton?

If you’re in favour — who or what do you think should replace the royals on the note? Popular suggestions in the past have included Steve Irwin, Paul Hogan and Shane Warne.

Members, please take note that some of you will have differing opinions on this decision and we want to remind everyone that it is okay to have opposing opinions, but it is not okay to attack someone for having an opposing opinion to you.

Remember, to be kind first and foremost. We will never endorse bullying behaviour.

Tell us your opinion below!

Source: YouTube/9 News Australia​

Yes, I am disappointed and no I do not think that it is appropriate for the Reserve Bank (under coercion of the Federal government) to take the decision to not display the Monarch's image on the lowest denomination Australian banknote as per convention.

 

[Mervyn]

I am clad he is not on the five dollar note he should not be on any off our money William Yes

 

[02630593]

For decades, the face of the reigning British monarch has constantly featured on Australia’s currency notes in what could be seen as a nod to the country’s roots and status as a Commonwealth nation.

However, in a significant and sudden shift, it has been revealed that the tradition will be brought to an end, with a design honouring First Australians taking the place of King Charles III.

‘The Reserve Bank has decided to update the $5 banknote to feature a new design that honours the culture and history of the First Australians,’ the Reserve Bank said in a statement.

‘This new design will replace the portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The other side of the $5 banknote will continue to feature the Australian Parliament.’

The RBA stressed that the move was done in consultation with the government.

‘I think this is a good opportunity to strike a good balance between the monarch on the coins and the First Nations design on the fiver,’ Treasurer Jim Chalmers said.

‘But the $5 note will say more about our history and our heritage, our country and I see that as a good thing.’

View attachment 12767

A design to be determined through consultations with Indigenous Australians will soon be seen on $5 notes. Image Credit: Shutterstock

Opposition to the change

The move has earned criticism, most notably stemming from the Opposition.

Liberal Party leader Peter Dutton dismissed the development as nothing but a progressive whim in an interview.

‘I think it is another attack on our systems, our society, and institutions.’

Opposition senator and monarchist Dean Smith, meanwhile, said the move was a missed opportunity.

‘A design incorporating both our new King and an appreciation for Australia's Indigenous heritage and culture would be a better and more unifying approach,’ he said.

‘This decision misses a unique opportunity for both the RBA and Anthony Albanese to merge these two important aspects of Australia's story.’

‘Although not totally unexpected, breaking with this long tradition will come as a disappointment to many Australians, who have never known anything different.’

The Sydney Morning Herald notes that the change passed through the current RBA board before it reached the government.

New $5 note out in ‘a number of years’

Despite the development, Aussies shouldn’t expect to see the new design anytime soon.

‘The Bank will consult with First Australians in designing the $5 banknote. The new banknote will take a number of years to be designed and printed,’ the RBA said.

‘In the meantime, the current $5 banknote will continue to be issued. It will be able to be used even after the new banknote is issued.’

This development, if final, would make the late Queen Elizabeth the last royal to be featured on Australian banknotes.

The tradition of featuring the reigning monarch first started in 1923, with King George V’s portrait appearing on all Australian bank notes up to 1953.


A sign of the times?

It wouldn’t be too far-fetched to say that this change in the $5 note is a sign of Australia’s widening break away from the British throne.

After the Queen’s passing last year conversations sprung up on whether or not it was time for the country to become a republic.

The Albanese government was earlier reported to have its eyes on a referendum for the matter — but only after it’s finished with another referendum on an the indigenous voice to parliament.

Many supporters have decried the nation’s long-standing ties with the British throne, seeing it as an impediment to a truly independent Australia.

However, others see no reason for such a shift in something they see has worked for the country so far.

View attachment 12768

The late Queen Elizabeth’s passing and King Charles’ ascension have sparked calls in Australia to shift to a republic. Image Credit: Shutterstock

Still, future moves towards a republican Australia aren’t guaranteed victory despite a sitting government that seems more open to the idea.

In 1999, a referendum was held on the same issue which resulted in a crushing defeat for the republican movement.

Another thing to take note of is public sentiment — does the average Aussie even want a republic?

Well, various polls reveal a mixed picture.

A poll conducted by The Guardian (right around the Queen’s passing, it must be noted) revealed that 43 per cent of Australians supported a republican form of government, with 20 per cent saying they were unsure and the remaining 37 per cent saying they opposed it.

However, in another poll conducted by market research company Roy Morgan around the same time, 60 per cent of Aussies wanted the monarchy to stay, while the remaining 40 per cent opposed the idea.

And of course, here in the SDC, an overwhelming majority — 72 per cent — said they didn’t think Australia should become a republic.

Something to think about, eh?

Key Takeaways

• The Reserve Bank has announced that a design honouring the culture and history of the First Australians will replace Queen Elizabeth’s image on the $5 note, ending a century-long tradition of the monarchy appearing on Australia’s cash.
• Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the government supported the Reserve Bank’s decision, while Opposition leader Peter Dutton accused the government of leading the change and labelled it as an 'attack on our systems'.
• The RBA said it consulted the federal government before making its decision and will now consult with First Australians in the design of the new note, which will take a number of years to manufacture.

On that note, perhaps as something of a consolation, Aussie currency isn’t entirely saying goodbye to the monarchy as King Charles III will still be featured on our coins.

If you’re excited to see King Charles’ visage on your change, however, you might also have to do some waiting.

In the meantime, you might want to stay updated on plans for his upcoming coronation on May 6.

So, what are your thoughts on this announced change to our $5 notes? Is it something you agree with, or do you share sentiments with Dutton?

If you’re in favour — who or what do you think should replace the royals on the note? Popular suggestions in the past have included Steve Irwin, Paul Hogan and Shane Warne.

Members, please take note that some of you will have differing opinions on this decision and we want to remind everyone that it is okay to have opposing opinions, but it is not okay to attack someone for having an opposing opinion to you.

Remember, to be kind first and foremost. We will never endorse bullying behaviour.

Tell us your opinion below!

Source: YouTube/9 News Australia​

we donot need anyone from the monachy on our notes, we are australia and it about time we left the commonwealth. it still evades me how such a small country managed to invade and take over so many other countries and call them theirs. i am not english i am autralian.

 

[Luckyus]

Lidia Thorpe is delighted that there will be no monarch on the $5 note! She is looking forward to a TREATY REPUBLIC. Her words, not mine! So what does that mean? In becoming a Republic, Australia must not just throw out institutions JUST because they were introduced by the Brits! That would be childish. Most important is that there ACTUALLY has to be consultation with all people in this nation. We do not want a pre-ordained plan by politicians enacted with them deciding who will be our future Head of State! Labor will appoint one of their own or an Indigenous Elder from their current short list!

Let any thoughts of a treaty stay where they belong in the lyrics of a song by an Ingenious group!! while on the subject I must ask where has all the taxpayer funds given to these groups to bring them out of poverty and enrich them. So far very few of them risen above the ranks and been given the credit they so richly deserve, ( in my ignorance in the matter the first one I seem to remember was the artist Albert Namatjira) there are certainly too many to list here without giving me at my age a repetitive strain injury

 

[lillybaby5]

Who do you think you are? I want King Charles on a $5 note you idiots. Who gives you the right to change it.I think you are nothing but fuckwits.

 

[Wandiwa]

My comment is not about the $5 note but the 5c piece. I'm wondering rather than change the dies to Charles III, if they will use the oppurtunity to cease production. I rarely receive 5c pieces in my change anymore.

 

[Annie]

It matters not to me who is depicted on the new $5 note nor, I suspect will it matter to most people. What will matter is the buying power of this banknote. What does concern me is the statement that it it will take years to design this banknote before printing. How many hours and hours of meetings etc will it take and at what exorbitant cost to the taxpayers of Australia? Is it worth it?

 

[Adonis]

For decades, the face of the reigning British monarch has constantly featured on Australia’s currency notes in what could be seen as a nod to the country’s roots and status as a Commonwealth nation.

However, in a significant and sudden shift, it has been revealed that the tradition will be brought to an end, with a design honouring First Australians taking the place of King Charles III.

‘The Reserve Bank has decided to update the $5 banknote to feature a new design that honours the culture and history of the First Australians,’ the Reserve Bank said in a statement.

‘This new design will replace the portrait of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The other side of the $5 banknote will continue to feature the Australian Parliament.’

The RBA stressed that the move was done in consultation with the government.

‘I think this is a good opportunity to strike a good balance between the monarch on the coins and the First Nations design on the fiver,’ Treasurer Jim Chalmers said.

‘But the $5 note will say more about our history and our heritage, our country and I see that as a good thing.’

View attachment 12767

A design to be determined through consultations with Indigenous Australians will soon be seen on $5 notes. Image Credit: Shutterstock

Opposition to the change

The move has earned criticism, most notably stemming from the Opposition.

Liberal Party leader Peter Dutton dismissed the development as nothing but a progressive whim in an interview.

‘I think it is another attack on our systems, our society, and institutions.’

Opposition senator and monarchist Dean Smith, meanwhile, said the move was a missed opportunity.

‘A design incorporating both our new King and an appreciation for Australia's Indigenous heritage and culture would be a better and more unifying approach,’ he said.

‘This decision misses a unique opportunity for both the RBA and Anthony Albanese to merge these two important aspects of Australia's story.’

‘Although not totally unexpected, breaking with this long tradition will come as a disappointment to many Australians, who have never known anything different.’

The Sydney Morning Herald notes that the change passed through the current RBA board before it reached the government.

New $5 note out in ‘a number of years’

Despite the development, Aussies shouldn’t expect to see the new design anytime soon.

‘The Bank will consult with First Australians in designing the $5 banknote. The new banknote will take a number of years to be designed and printed,’ the RBA said.

‘In the meantime, the current $5 banknote will continue to be issued. It will be able to be used even after the new banknote is issued.’

This development, if final, would make the late Queen Elizabeth the last royal to be featured on Australian banknotes.

The tradition of featuring the reigning monarch first started in 1923, with King George V’s portrait appearing on all Australian bank notes up to 1953.


A sign of the times?

It wouldn’t be too far-fetched to say that this change in the $5 note is a sign of Australia’s widening break away from the British throne.

After the Queen’s passing last year conversations sprung up on whether or not it was time for the country to become a republic.

The Albanese government was earlier reported to have its eyes on a referendum for the matter — but only after it’s finished with another referendum on an the indigenous voice to parliament.

Many supporters have decried the nation’s long-standing ties with the British throne, seeing it as an impediment to a truly independent Australia.

However, others see no reason for such a shift in something they see has worked for the country so far.

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The late Queen Elizabeth’s passing and King Charles’ ascension have sparked calls in Australia to shift to a republic. Image Credit: Shutterstock

Still, future moves towards a republican Australia aren’t guaranteed victory despite a sitting government that seems more open to the idea.

In 1999, a referendum was held on the same issue which resulted in a crushing defeat for the republican movement.

Another thing to take note of is public sentiment — does the average Aussie even want a republic?

Well, various polls reveal a mixed picture.

A poll conducted by The Guardian (right around the Queen’s passing, it must be noted) revealed that 43 per cent of Australians supported a republican form of government, with 20 per cent saying they were unsure and the remaining 37 per cent saying they opposed it.

However, in another poll conducted by market research company Roy Morgan around the same time, 60 per cent of Aussies wanted the monarchy to stay, while the remaining 40 per cent opposed the idea.

And of course, here in the SDC, an overwhelming majority — 72 per cent — said they didn’t think Australia should become a republic.

Something to think about, eh?

Key Takeaways

• The Reserve Bank has announced that a design honouring the culture and history of the First Australians will replace Queen Elizabeth’s image on the $5 note, ending a century-long tradition of the monarchy appearing on Australia’s cash.
• Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the government supported the Reserve Bank’s decision, while Opposition leader Peter Dutton accused the government of leading the change and labelled it as an 'attack on our systems'.
• The RBA said it consulted the federal government before making its decision and will now consult with First Australians in the design of the new note, which will take a number of years to manufacture.

On that note, perhaps as something of a consolation, Aussie currency isn’t entirely saying goodbye to the monarchy as King Charles III will still be featured on our coins.

If you’re excited to see King Charles’ visage on your change, however, you might also have to do some waiting.

In the meantime, you might want to stay updated on plans for his upcoming coronation on May 6.

So, what are your thoughts on this announced change to our $5 notes? Is it something you agree with, or do you share sentiments with Dutton?

If you’re in favour — who or what do you think should replace the royals on the note? Popular suggestions in the past have included Steve Irwin, Paul Hogan and Shane Warne.

Members, please take note that some of you will have differing opinions on this decision and we want to remind everyone that it is okay to have opposing opinions, but it is not okay to attack someone for having an opposing opinion to you.

Remember, to be kind first and foremost. We will never endorse bullying behaviour.

Tell us your opinion below!

Source: YouTube/9 News Australia​

 

[Ricci]

It matters not to me who is depicted on the new $5 note nor, I suspect will it matter to most people. What will matter is the buying power of this banknote. What does concern me is the statement that it it will take years to design this banknote before printing. How many hours and hours of meetings etc will it take and at what exorbitant cost to the taxpayers of Australia? Is it worth it?

What I don't understand is that everyone knew the Queen couldn't last forever and all manner of things were put into place before her demise, hell, even her funeral was planned down to the last minute years before it was needed. How come our people in power didn't have similar plans for a smooth transition? It's not like they didn't know who would take over from her. So the excuse for it taking years is....?