Australia is set to redesign its $5 note to honor the deep and enduring relationship of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with the land, as well as to acknowledge the pivotal moment of the Mabo decision which overturned terra nullius and paved the way for land rights. This decision moves away from featuring Queen Elizabeth II or the new monarch, King Charles III, on the note, which has been met with criticism by some, such as Opposition Leader Peter Dutton. The Reserve Bank of Australia is inviting submissions for artwork that encapsulates the “enduring emotional, spiritual, and physical connection” of First Nations people to the land, seas, and waters, emphasizing historical significance and the need for meaningful representation. The redesign also marks a departure from featuring portraits of individuals, with the Australian federal parliament to remain on the reverse side. Considerations for the artwork include the environmental stewardship of Indigenous communities and a call to avoid stereotypical elements. Past representations of Indigenous imagery on Australian currency, while commendable, have had their controversies like the David Malangi copyright dispute. The $5 note redesign is expected to foster greater cultural awareness and inclusion, with entries open until April.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/mar/17/australia-5-dollar-note-redesign-first-nations