PRESS STATEMENT NO. 11C
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NATIONAL ANTHEM
The Prime Minister, Mr Whitlam, in Perth today
issued the following statement on the selected entries for
the National Anthiem. Quest:.
" With a National Anthem it is the music which
really matters. We are still waiting to hear from our
composers. " Composers are not obliged to use any of the six
sets of words chosen from those submitted by the public.
They can write their own words if they wish or collaborate
with any writer. " The Government is niot imposing any anthem on
the people. The public will be consulted in the final
choice. If they decide, for instance, they want Waltzing
Matilda or Advance Australia Fair, then of course we
shall have it.
" Opinion polls have shown clearly that the
Australian people want a true Australian anthem. our aim
has been to give all Australians whether they can compose
music or not a chance to participate in writing an
anthem. Thecir interest has been tremendous, and I thank
all those who have taken part so far."
Mr Whitlam recalled that when last in Perth on
26 January to open the Perthi Concert Hall, he announced the
national anthem quest. Today, on his~ return to Perth,
hle was happy to report on its progress.
CAN BE RRA
Whitlam, Gough
Period of Service: 05/12/1972 - 11/11/1975
Find more information on Whitlam, Gough on the:
Release Date:
04/07/1973
Release Type:
Media Release
Transcript ID:
2968
Document:
00002968.pdf
1 Page(s)
Released by:
- Whitlam, Edward Gough
NATIONAL ANTHEM
2968