NRL to debut alternative national anthem for Indigenous round

In a historic move, an alternative national anthem will be played when the NRL Indigenous round kicks off tonight.

Indigenous All Stars performing a war dance before their annual clash with the World All Stars at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane. Source: AAP

For the first time, the NRL will play an alternative national anthem during this weekend's Indigenous round. 

The song was written by '60s sensation and former front person with the Seekers, Judith Durham.

Durham collaborated with  Mutti Mutti man Kutcha Edwards in 2009 on their alternative national anthem.

An NRL spokesperson confirmed to NITV News that two verses from Durham’s song will be played in a pre-recorded video package accompanied with the song’s lyrics.

Durham’s song will be read out as a poem rather than played as a song, as the traditional national anthem will still be played during the games.

The video will be broadcast to those in attendance, as well as those watching at home.

Indigenous Australian Rugby League Commissioner, Chris Sarra, is supportive of the change and has been pushing for it for the last few months.

"I don't feel particularly connected or included in what [the current anthem] speaks about," Mr Sarra said.

Durham changed the version of the national anthem from “in history’s page” to “And honouring the Dreaming”

Other alternative lyrics include, “combine our ancient history and cultures everywhere, to bond together for all time, advance Australia fair.”

All sixteen rugby league teams will have their players wearing the Indigenous round jerseys.

This is another first in the game’s history, that all clubs participate in the change of uniform.