The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has announced a redesign of the $5 banknote, replacing the image of British royalty with Indigenous artwork. The new theme, “Connection to Country,” acknowledges First Nations peoples’ deep ties to land, waters, and sky.
The change follows an Australia-wide campaign, receiving more than 2,100 public submissions. The RBA confirmed the selection on March 17, 2025, marking a shift in Australia’s currency representation.
Figure 1: Queen Elizabeth II has been on the $5 since 1992
First Nations Representation on Australian Currency
The redesigned $5 note will be the first Australian banknote not to feature a British monarch. Since 1992, Queen Elizabeth II appeared on the smallest denomination. However, following her death in 2022, the RBA decided not to include King Charles III.
The reverse side of the note will continue to depict the Australian Parliament, ensuring continuity with past designs.
Figure 2: Canberra’s Parliament House will remain on the new $5 bill
Connection to Country: The Chosen Theme
The RBA outlined that the “Connection to Country” theme reflects the cultural, spiritual, and physical link First Nations peoples have with the land. The bank noted that this theme should avoid tokenism or stereotypes and serve as a meaningful representation of First Nations culture.
The RBA acknowledged that the theme also considers the overturning of terra nullius, recognising the longstanding presence of First Nations peoples in Australia.
The Selection Process and Public Engagement
The RBA engaged extensively with First Nations organisations and communities before selecting the theme. The $5 Redesign Imagery Selection Panel included representatives from First Nations groups, the RBA, and Note Printing Australia.
The panel reviewed public submissions and selected a theme that reflects the environmental stewardship and cultural identity of Indigenous Australians.
Political Reactions to the Change
The decision to remove British royalty sparked mixed reactions across the political spectrum. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton criticised the move, describing it as “another attack on our systems, our society and institutions”. He referred to it as “woke nonsense”, comparing it to debates over Australia Day.
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The Australian Monarchist League also opposed the decision, calling it “neo-communism in action”.
However, Finance Minister Jim Chalmers supported the change, stating it was “the right decision for the right reasons”. He emphasised the importance of recognising First Nations culture, history, and heritage while maintaining the monarchy’s representation on coins.
Historical Indigenous Representations on Banknotes
Indigenous imagery has appeared on Australian currency before. The first $1 banknote in 1966 featured Indigenous artwork. The $50 banknote currently displays David Uniapon, a Ngarrindjeri man from South it, recognised for his contributions as an author, inventor, activist, and musician.
Figure 3: The $50 Banknote displaying David Uniapon
The new $5 banknote continues this representation, shifting focus to Indigenous its connection to the environment.
Future Design and Implementation
The RBA is working with First Nations artists to develop the final design. The bank has stated that the artwork must be authentic, non-tokenistic, and representative of diverse Indigenous cultures.
The updated banknote will retain the security features introduced in 2016 while incorporating new design elements. The RBA aims to complete the process within several years before releasing the redesigned note into circulation.
The current $5 note will remain legal tender until the new design is finalised.
Cultural and Social Significance of the Redesign
The redesign of the $5 note reflects a broader national conversation about its identity and reconciliation. It recognises the enduring presence and contributions of First Nations peoples while adapting national symbols to reflect contemporary values.
The RBA stated that the redesign “symbolises a hopeful future, where First Nations peoples’ connection to Country is celebrated and respected”.
The new banknote is expected to spark further discussions on Australia’s cultural identity and representation in public symbols.
