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Sport

Australian national anthem sung in a First Nations language before Wallabies-Pumas Test

Wallabies players have sung the Australian national anthem in both Eora language and English ahead of the Tri Nations Test against Argentina at the Western Sydney Stadium.

Wiradjuri woman Olivia Fox, from the Newtown Performing Arts School, led the rendition in Eora language.

The Wallabies players joined Ms Fox in singing the anthem in Eora language during the traditional pre-match ceremonies.

Advance Australia Fair was then performed in English.

It was the first time the national anthem had been performed in a First Nations language at a Wallabies Test.

The Wallabies also wore the First Nations jersey for the Test against the Pumas, which they drew 16-16 to close out the Tri Nations tournament.

The decision to sing the anthem in Eora drew widespread praise on Twitter.

Matt Giteau, who played over 100 Tests for the Wallabies, said it was a "special moment in Australian sport".

Samoa international Paul Alo-Emile, who represented Australia at the under 20 level, welcomed the move.

"How great was that!," Alo-Emile tweeted.

"Listening to the Aussie anthem being sung in the Eora language of the Gadigal people. Inspiring stuff, well done."

Australian Paralympic gold medallist Richard Colman described the moment as "incredible".

"As an athlete, every time the Australian anthem is performed it should be done this way," Colman tweeted.

Syndey-based rugby journalist Jamie Pandaram said singing the anthem in a First Nations language was "a great step forward".

Ms Fox was lauded for her performance of the national anthem.

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