New banknote design replaces King’s image with Indigenous theme
King Charles and the royal family have suffered a symbolic blow as Australia has decided not to feature the monarch on its redesigned $5 note, marking a significant departure from tradition.
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) confirmed that the new bill will focus on Indigenous heritage instead of carrying an image of King Charles III, despite his role as head of state. The decision follows decades of Queen Elizabeth II’s presence on the currency, as her portrait had been featured on the $5 note since 1992.
RBA Assistant Governor Michelle McPhee explained that the new theme, Connection to Country, highlights the significance of land, water, and sky to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
"Country is the land, the waters and the sky. Key to this theme is the recognition of First Nations communities' contribution to the restoration and conservation of our environment," the Reserve Bank said in a statement.
The announcement comes amid ongoing speculation about Prince Harry’s immigration status in the US, following the unsealing of his visa records. While King Charles remains Australia’s head of state, the country has gradually moved towards greater independence, and this decision signals a shift in its national identity.
