Australian nationalism is the ideology, movement and sentiment that emphasizes the identity, culture, and interests of Australia as a nation-state, asserting the identity of Australians as a distinct nation.[1] It encompasses a range of beliefs and values that are often rooted in Australia's history, geography, and socio-political context.[2] Key elements of Australian nationalism include a sense of national pride, attachment to Australian symbols such as the flag and national anthem, and a focus on promoting Australia's sovereignty and independence.[3]
Historically, Australian nationalism emerged during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as Australia moved towards federation and gained independence from British colonial rule,[1][4] developing itself in three pivotal historical traditions: the labour movement, the republican movement and the native-nationalist movement.[5] It was shaped by factors such as the experiences of early settlers and the desire for a distinct Australian identity separate from British influence.[1][6]
History
Pre-Federation
By the early 19th century, Australia was governed as a series of six largely self-governing colonies that were spread across the continent and were part of the British Empire.[7] Attempts to coordinate governance had failed in the 1860s due to a lack of popular support and lack of interest from the British government, but by the 1880s, and with the rise of nationalist movements in Europe, the efforts to establish a federation of the Australian colonies began to gather momentum. The British government supported federation as a means to cement British influence in the South Pacific.[8]
Post-Federation
Nationalistic sentiments increased as a result of Australia's participation in the First and Second World Wars, with concepts such as "mateship" becoming a cornerstone of Australian nationalism.[9]
Australian nationalist parties
Current
- Liberal Party of Australia (National Right Faction)
- National Party of Australia (factions)
- Liberal National Party of Queensland (factions)
- Australia First Party
- Australian Protectionist Party
- Katter's Australian Party
- Pauline Hanson's One Nation
- The Great Australian Party
Defunct
Australian nationalist movements and groups
Active
- Advance Australia
- Institute of Public Affairs
- National Socialist Network
- Antipodean Resistance
- Australian League of Rights
- True Blue Crew
- Lads Society
Defunct
Prominent Australian Nationalists
Historical
- Frank Anstey
- William Baylebridge
- Ben Chifley
- John Gorton
- Rex Ingamells
- William Lane
- Jack Lang
- John Dunmore Lang
- Henry Lawson
- Norman Lindsay
- Alexander Rud Mills
- John Monash
- Ian Mudie
- Banjo Patterson
- Percy Stephenson
- William Wentworth
- Gough Whitlam
Contemporary
See also
Flags
Flags used by Australian Nationalists
Older variations of the Australian flag
"The Men From Snowy River" flag used during World War I snowball marches
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