The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has announced the theme for the redesigned $5 banknote, which will honor the connection of First Nations peoples to Country. Assistant Governor Michelle McPhee stated, “The theme encompasses the deep connection First Nations peoples have to the land, the waters and the sky.”
“This inspiring theme will guide the creation of an artwork that will feature on the redesigned banknote,” McPhee added. The selection followed a national campaign resulting in over 2,100 public nominations. “We extend our gratitude to everyone who made a submission,” she said.
For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, Country represents more than just land; it includes land, waters, and sky as interconnected elements. The imagery on the $5 banknote aims to acknowledge this enduring connection—emotional, spiritual, and physical.
A significant context for this theme is recognizing the overturning of terra nullius, acknowledging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s relationship with Country for millennia. The artist is encouraged to reflect on how this decision has positively influenced First Nations peoples’ futures.
The theme also highlights First Nations communities’ contributions to environmental restoration and conservation using traditional ecological knowledge. This offers all Australians an opportunity to learn from these original stewards about nurturing and protecting our environment.
The representation should celebrate diversity among First Nations peoples across Australia and Torres Strait while recognizing that although Country varies in nature, it remains connected through land, waters, and sky. The artwork should avoid tokenism or stereotypes and convey a hopeful future where First Nation peoples’ connection to Country is respected.
Before selecting the theme, RBA engaged with First Nations organizations nationwide to raise awareness and encourage idea submissions. The $5 Redesign Imagery Selection Panel, including representatives from First Nations communities, RBA, and Note Printing Australia, chose the theme.
The new design will replace Queen Elizabeth II’s portrait while retaining Australian Parliament imagery on the reverse side. It will incorporate artwork from a First Nations artist reflecting this chosen theme.
