National Symbols
The Commonwealth Coat of Arms
The Commonwealth Coat of Arms is the official symbol of the Commonwealth of Australia. It features a kangaroo and an emu supporting a shield with the badges of the six states, set against a background of golden wattle.
Key facts
- ◆ A kangaroo and an emu hold up the central shield.
- ◆ The kangaroo and emu are said to symbolise a nation moving forward, as neither easily walks backwards.
- ◆ The shield shows the badges of the six states of Australia.
- ◆ Golden wattle, Australia's national flower, appears in the background.