Symbols of Australia: Imagining a Nation

Revealing the origins, stories, and sagas behind Australia's best-known, best-loved, and least-understood symbols, this collection explores the emergence, longevity, and prominence of 26 key symbols of Australia. From the stalwart brands of Vegemite and Holden cars to the natural and man-made landmarks of Uluru and the Sydney Harbor Bridge and Australia's unique indigenous flora and fauna, these commercial and community-based symbols are distinctive and highly recognizable—whether they are official, popular, spontaneous, or imposed. Representing Australia to the world, these symbols can evoke Australian national pride, officially acknowledge the familiar, provide visitors with mementos to take home, or sell products. Each chapter illuminates a particular symbol and shares lively anecdotes, showing that every symbol possesses a significance that goes beyond the surface.