Five-Dollar note depicting Queen Elizabeth II. Source : Wittman Tours
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has announced a new design for the five-dollar note, which has depicted Queen Elizabeth II since 1992.
While many expected King Charles II’s likeness to be plastered on the notes, the RBA has instead announced the new design would “honour the culture and history of the First Australians”.
“The new banknote will take a number of years to be designed and printed.” The RBA said in a statement.
“In the meantime, the current five-dollar banknote will continue to be issued.
“It will be able to be used even after the new banknote is issued.” They said.
The new design will feature a design made in collaboration with Indigenous Elders, which will take the place of Queen Elizabeth II, while the other side will continue to depict Parliament House.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton commented on the matter on the Today Show where he said Australians should be proud of both aspects of Australian history.
“We’ve got lots of recognition for Indigenous and other pioneers of our country on the different banknotes, and I just think it’s a continuation of heritage.” Mr Dutton said
“We should be incredibly proud of our Indigenous heritage but we should also be proud of our British heritage.” He said.
Mr Dutton also spoke on 2GB with Ray Hadley following the announcement, where he said the decision was likely made by the Albanese Government.
“I think it’s another attack on our systems, our society, our institutions.” Mr Dutton said.
“There’s no question about this that it’s directed by the government, I think the Prime Minister should own up to it.
“He would have been central to the decision-making and if it’s a decision they’ve made, put your hand up and say this is the reason we’ve made it.” He said.
Previously, the Royal Mint confirmed King Charles III would be featured on Australian coins.
Assistant Minister for Treasury Andrew Leigh said the while the coins will not have their design change, since the notes are issued by the RBA, it is ultimately their decision to depict whoever they like.
“As I understand, the decision to include the Queen’s face on the five-dollar note was about her personally, rather than about her status as a monarch.” Mr Leigh said.
The new note design will be the fifth time a change has been made to the five-dollar note since polymer notes were issued in 1992.
It will also be the first time a member of the Monarchy will not be featured in nearly a century.
Currently, the 50 dollar note features Indigenous author David Unaipon, and has been in circulation since 1995, while the two-dollar coin features a drawing inspired by Aboriginal Elder Gwoya Tjungurrayi.
