The Coat of Arms of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is a heraldic design that represents the administrative territory encompassing Canberra, the capital city of Australia. Adopted on March 25, 1938, the coat of arms symbolizes the unique status and history of the ACT within the Commonwealth of Australia.The shield's central element is a stylized representation of Mount Ainslie, a prominent landmark in Canberra. The shield is divided into four quarters: the first and fourth quarters display a three-towered castle symbolizing government, while the second and third quarters show a gold ram's head on azure (a blue field), signifying strength and vigilance. A gold kangaroo, facing dexter (the viewer's left), is placed above the shield, holding an olive branch in its paw. This symbolizes peace, unity, and abundance.The coat of arms also features a torch in the crest, representing enlightenment and knowledge, with a star and southern cross above it, symbolizing the territories of Australia and the Southern Hemisphere. The motto "For the Queen, the Law and Canberra" is written below the shield, underscoring the commitment to the monarchy, the rule of law, and the development of Canberra as the national capital.
