Australia’s most recognisable landmark, the Sydney Opera House was formally opened by Queen Elizabeth II 50 years ago on 20 October 1973. Acclaimed throughout the world, and recognised as a masterpiece of human creative genius, this extraordinary building was designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon (1918–2008), following an international design competition. It was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2007 as “a masterpiece of 20th century architecture”. The Sydney Opera House is also Australia’s number one tourist destination, welcoming more than 10.9 million visitors a year. It is also one of the world’s busiest performing arts centres, presenting more than 2,000 shows, 363 days per year, for more than 1.5 million people.

The Bathurst 1000, (currently known as the Repco Bathurst 1000), stands as a pinnacle in motorsport history. This annual 1000-kilometre touring car race takes place on the Mount Panorama Circuit, nestled in the scenic expanse of Bathurst, New South Wales, Australia. A cornerstone of the Repco Supercars Championship, the event's legacy stretches back to the 1960 Armstrong 500 at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, finding its enduring home in Bathurst in 1963; and this year celebrating the 60th anniversary of this famous event. Known as 'The Great Race', it embodies endurance as drivers navigate the unforgiving Mount Panorama track. The atmosphere, charged with roaring engines, thunderous noise, and collective anticipation, culminates in triumphant podium moments, immortalising motorsport heroes.

In 2023, it is 50 years since Malcolm and Angus Young formed the legendary Australian rock band AC/DC and it began its irrepressible rise, fuelled by a distinctive sound and an energetic stage presence. Having released 18 studio albums between 1973 and 2023, AC/DC has sold more than 200 million albums worldwide.

On 8 September 2022, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II passed away, aged 96. Born Elizabeth Alexandra Mary on 21 April 1926, Queen Elizabeth reigned as Queen of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth for 70 years and 214 days, the longest of any British monarch and the longest of any female head of state in recorded history. This issue of six postage stamps honours the life of the late Queen, by showcasing some of the attributes that became hallmarks of her remarkable reign: longevity; a dedication to service, family and the Commonwealth; numerous visits to Australia; and a fondness for dogs and horses.