Every Australian Citizen Is Entitled To A Free Royal Portrait Paid For By The Government — Demand Surges For Queen Elizabeth's Final Images Bringing Attention To This Little-Known Right

Australian citizens have a legal entitlement to request "nationhood material" from their members of parliament, including portraits of the reigning monarch. For nearly 70 years, this meant a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II. 

The Department of Finance has now confirmed that once official portraits of King Charles III are available, they will replace those of Queen Elizabeth in this provision.

The practice, a little-known quirk enshrined in law, has seen a marked increase in requests following the death of Queen Elizabeth. Offices of several members of parliament (MPs), such as Karen Andrews, Bridget Archer and Stephen Bates, reported a notable surge in these requests. Some offices, like those of Bates and Archer, received an influx of at least 50 requests in recent days, while Labor MP Tony Burke’s office also noted an uptick in demand.

Don’t Miss:

• With returns as high as 300%, it’s no wonder this asset is the investment choice of many billionaires. Uncover the secret.
• Oprah, Madonna and DiCaprio have turned to the alternative asset that is outperforming the S&P 500. Discover the potential of this market before other investors.

Under the Parliamentary Entitlements Act 1990, Australian MPs are obliged to provide constituents with materials related to national symbols, including the Australian flag, booklets on Australia's national symbols, recordings of the national anthem and monarch portraits. The Department of Finance’s website details these available items and offers a digital download of the Queen’s portrait.

This phenomenon illustrates the enduring appeal and significance of royal portraits, not just as symbols of national identity but also as valuable pieces of art. The increase in demand underscores the emotional and cultural value attached to such portraits, reflecting a broader appreciation for art in society.

In this context, the concept of investing in art gains relevance. Platforms like Masterworks have revolutionized the way people can engage with the art market. Masterworks allows investors to buy shares in famous artworks, making it possible for a broader audience to invest in high-value art pieces. This approach democratizes access to art investing, traditionally a privilege of the affluent.

Investing in art via platforms like Masterworks offers several benefits. It allows for portfolio diversification, as the art market often doesn’t correlate directly with traditional stock and bond markets. Additionally, art can serve as a hedge against inflation, as its value tends to appreciate over time. The emotional and aesthetic appeal of art adds a unique dimension to an investment portfolio, combining financial potential with cultural and historical significance.

The rising interest in royal portraits in Australia exemplifies the deep connection people have with art and its multifaceted value. This trend aligns with the growing interest in art investment platforms, highlighting art’s dual role as both a cultural emblem and a valuable asset.