No Australian national anthem in All Stars clash

The Australian national anthem will not be played at this year’s match between the Indigenous and Maori All Stars.

The Australian Rugby League Commission made the decision after advice from the ARL Indigenous Council.

An Indigenous team will face a Maori side in a pre-season clash at Cbus Super Stadium on February 22.

ARL chairman Peter V’landys said: “We have listened to our players’ concerns that the words of the anthem do not represent them or their families.

“‘Advance Australia Fair’ was written in 1878 and “does not include an acknowledgement of First Nations people.

“The All Stars game was created as a celebration of Indigenous players and their culture. We respect their wishes and have agreed that the anthem will not be played.”

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