Waltzing Matilda –- National Song

MEDIA RELEASE. Thursday 6 April 1995

The Prime Minister should take the opportunity during his visit to Winton, Queensland today to announce his intention to formally proclaim Waltzing Matilda as our National Song, Mr Harold Scruby, Executive Director of Ausflag said today.

Mr Scruby quoted from Ausflag's letter published on 18 February 1995:

While the majority of Australians chose and want Advance Australia Fair to remain our National Anthem, it appears there are many who like Waltzing Matilda. There may be an option that would please most Australians.

Prior to 1984, Australia had a National Anthem (God Save the Queen) and a National Song (Advance Australia Fair). After Advance Australia Fair was proclaimed the National Anthem, we were left with no National Song, yet the precedent and tradition remain.

Many nations have National Anthems and National Songs: the former are mostly used on formal and solemn occasions and the latter on more informal and joyous occasions.

Waltzing Matilda is a most emotional and moving tune. Its proclamation and formal recognition as our National Song is likely prove very popular with the people of Australia and encourage its wider use.

Perhaps this is an issue that can be embraced by all sides of politics.

Mr Scruby said that the leader of the National Party, Mr Tim Fischer, supported the proposal and Ausflag hoped that Mr Keating would use the centenary celebrations of Waltzing Matilda in Winton to announce its proclamation as our National Song.