Above these symbols you will note the sun setting over the ocean. Australia has often been referred to as the "Land of the setting sun". Below the design is situated a scroll in which are written the words "Advance Australia".

The Coat of Arms is divided into four sections:

1

2

3

4

Next to the Emu and Kangaroo are sheaths of wheat and below them are grape vines, symbolising Australia as the land of opportunity. The Coat of Arms was produced by Messrs W Pett & Son, however the castings have been unable to be traced.

Coat of Arms

The Adelaide Arcade was built in 1885, 16 years before federation and 24 years before a Coat of Arms was officially proclaimed (1908). At that time many people were wondering what a Coat of Arms for Australia would be.

Various competitions were conducted and the promoters of the Adelaide Arcade decided to adopt the one design they thought would eventually win the competition.

As it turned out this particular design was not adopted for Australia, however it remains a symbol of the Adelaide Arcade's unique character.

The Adelaide Arcade's Coat of Arms is still similar to Australia's official one in a few respects. It has a Kangaroo and Emu on each side, although opposite to the final Australian design.