In August 2025, The Australian Army released the eighth pattern of the Rising Sun, a refreshed Army brand mark. It also updated Army emblems at the Formation, Corps and Brigade level that feature the Royal Crown and Cypher.
Reason for the 2025 update
The update reflects the change in Australia’s sovereign following the accession of His Majesty King Charles III. As a constitutional monarchy, Australian Defence Force emblems that incorporate the Royal Cypher and Crown are updated to reflect the reigning monarch. This change ensures the Army’s insignia remains current and consistent with Royal protocols and reflects Australia’s relationship with the Crown.
The Australian Army is retaining all core elements of its identity, traditions, and service history. This is a symbolic update to reflect the sovereign, which is a longstanding practice observed after a change in monarch.
The change is being implemented across government, including the Department of Defence.
Primary changes
The primary changes involve:
- the Royal Cypher, which has changed from EIIR (Elizabeth II Regina) to CIIIR (Charles III Rex)
- the St Edward's Crown, which represented Queen Elizabeth II, has been updated with the Tudor Crown, as chosen by King Charles III to symbolise his reign.
The colour crown incorporates the official artwork provided by Buckingham Palace. The Australian Army, Navy, and Air Force have all adopted the colour crown.
Digital changes
From 1 August 2025, these changes are being digitally rolled out on :
- Army digital emblem(s) artwork files that feature the Royal Cypher or Crown.
- Army digital collateral, including stationery and templates.
- Army digital channels, including Army's website, social media and the intranet
- colours, guidons, standards and banners featuring the crown and insignia.
Physical changes
The change will be applied gradually and pragmatically in physical products as part of routine updates and replacements.
Australian Army uniforms, hats, badges and medals
Uniform insignia that includes the Royal Cypher or Crown may be updated over time, but this will occur as part of standard issue cycles. There is no immediate requirement for individuals to replace existing items. Badges and insignia will be gradually updated through attrition, as required. Contact Army Uniforms for further details.
Implementation costs
The update is being implemented using existing internal resources. There are no additional costs to the public as part of this process.
Memorials
The Rising Sun pattern selected for a memorial represents the Rising Sun badge worn at the time. If the memorial is for specific time, for example 1991 to 1995, please request the 7th pattern. If the memorial spans multiple patterns, or include current serving members, for new requests please apply for the 8th pattern. Find out more on historic patterns and apply online to request permission to use an Army emblem.
You have the option to choose the Rising Sun pattern that your family member served the majority of their time under, or the current pattern. Find out more on historic patterns and apply online to request permission to use.