"Advance Australia Fair" is recognized as Australia's national song, but not as the national anthem.

In 1974, "Advance Australia Fair" was recognized as Australia's national song, a significant step towards its eventual adoption as the national anthem. This decision reflected a growing sentiment in Australia for a distinct national identity separate from its colonial ties to Britain. Background: The Search for a National Anthem Before 1974, Australia's official national anthem was "God Save the Queen," reflecting its status as a member of the British Commonwealth. However, as Australia matured as a nation, there was an increasing desire for an anthem that resonated more with its unique identity and cultural heritage. "Advance Australia Fair" was written by Peter Dodds McCormick in 1878. The song had been popular in various contexts for many years, often performed at public events and ceremonies. Its lyrics celebrated Australia's natural beauty, resources, and the spirit of its people, making it a strong contender for the role of a national anthem. Recognition as the National Song In 1974, the Whitlam government sought to formalize the status of "Advance Australia Fair" as part of a broader push towards establishing a more distinct national identity. On April 4, 1974, Prime Minister Gough Whitlam announced that "Advance Australia Fair" would be recognized as Australia's national song, although "God Save the Queen" would remain the official national anthem for certain ceremonial occasions. This decision was influenced by the findings of a public opinion survey conducted in 1973 by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, which showed a strong preference for "Advance Australia Fair" over other contenders, including "Waltzing Matilda" and "Song of Australia." Lyrics and Themes The lyrics of "Advance Australia Fair" evoke a sense of pride and optimism about the country's future. Here are the original verses commonly sung: Australians all let us rejoice, For we are young and free; We've golden soil and wealth for toil; Our home is girt by sea; Our land abounds in nature's gifts Of beauty rich and rare; In history's page, let every stage Advance Australia Fair. In joyful strains then let us sing, Advance Australia Fair. Beneath our radiant Southern Cross We'll toil with hearts and hands; To make this Commonwealth of ours Renowned of all the lands; For those who've come across the seas We've boundless plains to share; With courage let us all combine To Advance Australia Fair. In joyful strains then let us sing, Advance Australia Fair. The song's themes of unity, freedom, and the natural beauty of Australia resonated with the public and captured the spirit of the nation. Towards Official Adoption While "Advance Australia Fair" was widely accepted as the national song, the movement to adopt it as the official national anthem continued. In 1977, a national plebiscite was held to determine the preferred national anthem. The results showed a clear preference for "Advance Australia Fair," but it was not immediately adopted due to political and bureaucratic delays. It was not until 1984, under the government of Prime Minister Bob Hawke, that "Advance Australia Fair" was officially proclaimed as the national anthem of Australia. This change finally provided Australia with an anthem that reflected its identity and aspirations as a modern, independent nation. #MomentsOfLife #MoofLife_Moment #MoofLife #AdvanceAustraliaFair #AustralianNationalAnthem #AustralianHistory #NationalIdentity #GoughWhitlam #BobHawke