'Out of the way peasants': The regal number plate rich in Australian history
Today at 12:01 AM
Most drivers have spotted funny custom number plates on local roads. But it’s a crown plate that continues to spark social media interest.
While Australian roads are filled with an abundance of unique number plates, it's the crown symbol found on government vehicles that continues to baffle social media.
One Reddit user captured a glimpse of the crown number plate and posted the photo to a Melbourne Reddit page alongside a caption that read "Anyone know what this plate means?".
RELATED: The funniest custom number plates spotted in Australia this year
In true social media fashion, some commenters decided to chime in with some humorous responses, with one user stating: "It means ‘I’m kind of a big deal’.” While another added, “[It means] get out of the way peasants.”
Jokes aside, the Tudor crown number plate symbolises a government vehicle used by the Governor-General of Australia during official trips. Other state and territory governors use similar variations of the number plate markings.
"The use of the [Tudor crown] plates symbolises that the Governor-General is His Majesty’s representative in Australia," a spokesperson for the Office of the Official Secretary to the Governor General, told Drive.
It's worth noting this isn't the first time the crown plate has been spotted, with similar images posted across various social media platforms over the past couple of years.
As a reference, the Governor of Victoria's government car was spotted on Melbourne roads in 2023, with the vehicle marked by the St Edward’s crown – in comparison to the Governor-General's Tudor crown and white plate – against a black background.
Where did the crown number plate come from?
It's hard to pinpoint exactly when high Australian dignitaries started using crown number plates on their vehicles. The Sovereign plates have been seen on various government vehicles for decades.
However, the tradition could have started from the beginning of the 20th century, when Parliament officials – including the Governor-General – started using cars as a mode of transport as opposed to the railway system.
Since the Governor-General is the King's Federal Representative, the use of the Monarchy’s crown on government vehicles symbolises Australia's historical relationship with the UK.
In addition to the crown number plate, the Governor-General's car is also distinguished by the custom flag attached to the front of their vehicles.
According to the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn – Australia's current Governor-General – adopted a newly designed flag on July 1, 2024.
The custom dark blue banner is distinguished by a crowned lion perched above the Tudor crown, while a golden scroll etched with the words ‘Commonwealth of Australia’ is positioned underneath it.
Interestingly, some State Governor vehicles – like Victoria, NSW and Western Australia – have previously utilised a different crown symbol than the Governor General’s.
For context, the St Edward’s crown – historically used in the Coronation ceremonies of previous English kings – was one of the traditional emblems of the Monarchy, hence why most vice-regal cars in Australia used the symbol.
However, the UK Government previously changed the symbol in 2022 – and officially introduced it in 2024 – when King Charles announced His Majesty’s cypher, which included the change from St Edward to the Tudor crown.
The cosmetic change is minor, with the St Edward’s crown featuring a slight dip on the curved arch, while the Tudor version showcases a straighter curve.
The post 'Out of the way peasants': The regal number plate rich in Australian history appeared first on Drive.
