The inclusion of Anzac ‘biscuits’ on the menu at Australia’s parliamentary reception for King Charles and Queen Camilla has sparked outrage because it violates guidelines on what biscuits should be called.
Dignitaries enjoyed a variety of delights during the event in the Great Hall of Parliament and were welcomed by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Jodie Haydon on Monday afternoon.
Guests were able to choose between savory and sweet canapes, including crab cake, arancini and cheesecake and an ‘Anzac biscuit’.
There are explicit regulations on the use of the word Anzac, particularly in relation to food.
A true royal complement: Anzac biscuits were called “biscuits” on the menu at King Charles’s parliamentary reception
According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, Anzac biscuits should be explicitly called “biscuits” and never “biscuits.”
“The use of the word ‘Anzac’ in the commercial production and sale of Anzac biscuits is generally approved,” the guidelines read.
“However, the biscuits…should be referred to as ‘Anzac biscuits’ or ‘Anzac slices’ (not ‘Anzac biscuits’).”
The error was quickly reported online.
‘Excuse me, what is an Anzac ‘biscuit’?’ a woman wrote in X.
King Charles and Queen Camilla at the parliamentary reception where cookies were served
The “shameful” move was criticized by many online, with some calling it an “abomination” and “illegal.”
“That’s embarrassing,” one person lamented.
Some argued it was “definitely a misstep”, while others called the error “wrong” and “sacrilege” to the memory of Australian veterans.
“It’s an insult to be called a biscuit when it’s an Anzac biscuit,” said another. “(It’s) disrespectful to our Anzacs.”
Parliamentary Services and the Department of Veterans Affairs have been contacted for comment.