The NSW government faced challenges with their century-old coat of arms, as the image was not available in a format that allowed for infinite resizing without losing resolution. This meant that the full-colour emblem could only be used on small applications, while a black outline had to be used for larger applications. The emblems on the coat of arms symbolize NSW’s connections to Britain and Australian identity, featuring a lion and kangaroo.
In 2020, the former NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet began researching an update to the coat of arms. In 2022, they outsourced the project to Sydney-based design agency For the People, who worked with UK illustrator Chris Mitchell to create a more intricate and refined set of state arms artworks in various formats for different uses. This update was necessary to ensure the emblem could be used effectively across different sizes and applications.
The rising popularity of online heraldic artwork by computer graphic artists has opened up new possibilities for updating heraldry. By incorporating details such as shading and shadows, the NSW coat of arms was given a modern and refined look. The lion represents the state’s links to Britain, while the kangaroo symbolizes Australian identity, reflecting both the past and the future of the state.
The updated coat of arms includes symbols such as the Southern Cross stars, the golden fleece and wheat sheaves representing the wool industry and agricultural wealth, and the rising sun symbolizing hope for the future. The motto “Orta recens quam pura nites” translates to “Newly risen, how brightly you shine” in English, capturing the spirit and aspirations of NSW. The new design replaced the royal coat of arms in most state buildings in 2006, as mandated by a law passed by the NSW parliament in 2004.
Overall, the update to the NSW coat of arms represents a significant modernization of a longstanding symbol of the state’s heritage and identity. By working with experienced designers and illustrators, the government was able to create a visually appealing and versatile emblem that can be used across a variety of applications. The incorporation of new design elements and technologies reflects a commitment to preserving and enhancing NSW’s history while embracing new opportunities in graphic design and heraldry.
