However, the national anthem remained undecided until independence from Australia in 1975, four years later.
Although many songs were submitted to be the anthem, the National Executive Council decided a week before the country's Independence Day (10 September 1975), to adopt as the national anthem a composition that was composed by Chief Inspector Thomas Shacklady (1917–2006), a bandmaster of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary Band.
An official later stated that this was illegal and a violation of the National Identity Act.
O arise all you sons of this land,[a] Let us sing of our joy to be free,[b] Praising God and rejoicing to be Papua New Guinea.
Now give thanks to the good Lord above For His kindness, His wisdom and love For this land of our fathers so free, Papua New Guinea.