Proclamation of Amended Words – Australian National Anthem

Overview

The Australian National Anthem Proclamation of Amended Words, proclaimed on 30 December 2020, replaces the words of the national anthem as initially proclaimed on 19 April 1984. The Governor-General, acting with the advice of the Federal Executive Council, has revoked the previous proclamation to implement this change. The new lyrics aim to reflect a more inclusive national identity by omitting references to Australia as "young and free" and "the land of the brave", which were perceived as excluding Indigenous Australians and those who arrived post-colonisation. This amendment is effective from 1 January 2021 and signifies a shift towards a more representative national anthem that acknowledges the diverse origins and contributions of all Australians. The proclamation was signed by the Governor-General, His Excellency David Hurley, and sealed with the Great Seal of Australia, at the command of the Prime Minister, Scott Morrison.

Scope and Application

The Australian National Anthem Proclamation of Amended Words, enacted on 30 December 2020 and effective from 1 January 2021, revokes the previous proclamation made on 19 April 1984, updating the lyrics of the national anthem "Advance Australia Fair." This proclamation applies to all Australians and entities within the Commonwealth of Australia, signifying a formal recognition and adoption of the revised anthem lyrics. The scope of this proclamation is national, affecting every individual, organisation, and governmental or non-governmental entity within Australia. There are no stated exclusions or exemptions from the application of this proclamation, meaning that all Australians are expected to acknowledge and use the amended lyrics of the national anthem. The proclamation itself does not extend its application through subordinate instruments, as it is a direct and comprehensive update to the national anthem’s wording.

Key Provisions

The Australian National Anthem Proclamation of Amended Words (C2021G00004) principally focuses on altering the lyrics of the national anthem. Section (a) revokes the previous proclamation of the National Anthem made by the Governor-General in Council on 19 April 1984, specifically paragraph (b). Section (b) declares that the national anthem shall henceforth consist of the tune "Advance Australia Fair" with newly specified words. These words, outlined in the proclamation, replace the previous ones and will be the official lyrics from 1 January 2021 onwards. The proclamation imposes obligations on various parties and entities within Australia. The Governor-General, in acting with the advice of the Federal Executive Council, ensures the formal and legal change of the national anthem's lyrics. Additionally, all Australians are expected to adopt and use the new lyrics when singing the national anthem. This includes official government events, schools, and any other public or private gatherings where the anthem is sung. The legislation does not explicitly outline offences, penalties, or civil/criminal consequences for not adhering to the new lyrics of the national anthem. However, given the proclamation's authoritative nature, non-compliance could lead to informal social or cultural repercussions, particularly in formal settings where the national anthem is sung. It is likely that the expectation is for Australians to follow the new lyrics to maintain national unity and respect for the country's symbols.