Commonwealth Coat of Arms
The Commonwealth Coat of Arms symbolises the ownership and authority of the Australian Government.
It was granted in a Royal Warrant in 1912.
About the Commonwealth Coat of Arms
The Commonwealth Coat of Arms is an emblem signifying the national unity of Australia.
Symbols of Australia’s six states appear together on the shield, which is the central feature of a coat of arms. The border of the shield symbolises federation.
The national Floral Emblem, the golden wattle, frames the Commonwealth Coat of Arms.
The kangaroo and emu are the native animals that hold the shield with pride. Some say the kangaroo and emu were chosen to symbolise a nation moving forward.
This is based on the common belief that neither animal can move backwards easily.
A coat of arms is granted by the Sovereign and is a sign of identity and authority.
History
King Edward VII made the first official grant of a coat of arms to the Commonwealth of Australia on 7 May 1908.
The first Commonwealth Coat of Arms showed the kangaroo and emu supporting the shield and standing on a grassy mound. The shield displayed the cross of St George.
King George V made Australia’s second grant of arms in a Royal Warrant dated 19 September 1912. The significant change was to include the symbols of the states on the shield.
Use of the Commonwealth Coat of Arms
The Commonwealth Coat of Arms is the official mark of Commonwealth authority.
The Commonwealth Coat of Arms is not available for public use.
Permission must be granted to reproduce the Commonwealth Coat of Arms. Use without permission may be in breach of legislation.
Print fact sheet
The information on this page is available as a printable fact sheet.
This factsheet is tailored to suit education resources for teachers/students. Please view the Symbols section for further information.
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The first official Coat of Arms granted to the
Commonwealth of Australia was
made by
King
Edward VII in a Royal Warrant of 7
May 1908
The Commonwealth Coat of Arms is the
official mark of Commonwealth authority
and the Arms are not available for
general public use