CONTROVERSY ERUPTS: Queensland LNP Government Quietly Changes State Coat of Arms from Maroon to Blue—Cost, Motive, and Priorities Under Fire
Brisbane, Queensland – July 2025
In a move that has blindsided many Queenslanders and ignited a political firestorm, the Liberal National Party (LNP) Government of Queensland has quietly changed the colour of the state’s historic coat of arms—from its traditional maroon to a deep blue. What may seem like a minor aesthetic tweak has become a major point of contention across the state, raising urgent questions about the cost, motive, and broader priorities of the ruling government.
The decision, confirmed late last week via an obscure update on a government website, has sparked outrage from the public, sports fans, historians, and opposition leaders alike. For over a century, Queensland’s maroon-coloured emblems and uniforms have been deeply entrenched in the state’s identity—representing pride, unity, and cultural distinctiveness. Maroon is not just a colour in Queensland; it’s a symbol of state pride, most famously displayed by the Queensland Maroons in State of Origin rugby league.
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“Un-Australian,” “Petty,” and “Tone-Deaf,” Critics Say
Opposition Leader Anika Wells wasted no time slamming the decision, labelling it “a tone-deaf distraction from the real issues facing Queenslanders.” In a fiery press conference outside Parliament House, she said:
> “This is the colour of our sporting teams, our schools, our flags, our hearts—and now the LNP wants to turn it blue for cheap political branding. What next, change the Great Barrier Reef to teal?”
Former Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk also weighed in on social media, calling the move “petty, divisive, and a betrayal of our heritage.”
Meanwhile, thousands have taken to X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook to voice frustration under the trending hashtag #HandsOffOurMaroon. One viral post read:
> “You don’t mess with maroon. That’s Queensland’s colour. We wear it on our sleeves—literally!”
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The Official Response: “It’s About Modernisation”
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli defended the change on Monday, stating it was “part of a broader modernisation strategy” to align government branding and digital platforms under a consistent and streamlined visual identity.
> “This is not about politics. It’s about clarity, efficiency, and moving with the times,” Crisafulli said during a media appearance. “Maroon remains our proud cultural colour, especially in sport. But when it comes to government administration, we want a sleek, professional look.”
However, critics argue that aligning the state’s official identity with the LNP’s own party colour—blue—is anything but neutral.
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The Cost: “How Much for a Colour Swap?”
Beyond symbolism, the public is demanding transparency about the financial cost of this unexpected overhaul. According to a leaked document obtained by The Courier-Mail, early estimates suggest the rebranding project could cost taxpayers upwards of $3.1 million—covering everything from new stationery, signage, vehicle decals, website updates, ceremonial documents, and government uniforms.
Public sector unions are furious.
> “We’re told to tighten belts, deal with staff shortages, and do more with less—and yet millions are spent on a colour change nobody asked for?” said Union Secretary Michelle Kavanagh.
An online petition calling for the reinstatement of the maroon coat of arms has already gathered over 85,000 signatures in under 72 hours.
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Cultural Identity vs. Political Branding
Queensland is unique among Australian states for its fiercely loyal colour identity. From State of Origin rivalries to school sports carnivals, maroon is synonymous with Queensland pride. Cultural anthropologist Dr. Elaine Waters said the change risks creating a rift in generational identity.
> “This isn’t just a graphic design tweak. It’s a rupture with history,” she explained. “Colours hold meaning. Maroon has long been an emotional anchor for Queenslanders. Replacing it with blue, especially under an LNP government, makes this feel like political branding disguised as reform.”
Even sports stars have entered the fray. Former Queensland rugby league great Darren Lockyer said in an interview:
> “There’s only one colour Queenslanders bleed—and it’s maroon. You can’t just paint over that with blue and expect people to clap.”
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Political Fallout Looming?
With state elections less than a year away, political analysts believe this controversy could hurt the LNP if not carefully managed. Many are accusing the government of misplaced priorities—shifting focus to cosmetic changes while ignoring key issues like cost of living, youth crime, housing shortages, and health system strain.
Pollster Kate Jamison from CivicPulse noted:
> “This isn’t just about colour—it’s about values. In times of economic hardship, voters expect their leaders to focus on essentials. Symbolic moves like this can backfire hard if seen as arrogant or out of touch.”
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What’s Next?
The government has not indicated any plans to reverse the change, though growing public backlash may force its hand. Labor has already announced it would restore the maroon coat of arms if elected in 2026.
Meanwhile, Queenslanders across the state continue to voice their outrage, with calls for a public consultation or parliamentary inquiry into the decision. A protest rally is being organised outside Parliament House next week, where hundreds are expected to turn up—dressed in maroon.
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: changing Queensland’s colours is about much more than aesthetics. It’s a test of identity, heritage,
and political respect for tradition.
And in Queensland, you don’t mess with maroon lightly.