Nine-year-old punished after protesting Australian national anthem

A nine-year-old schoolgirl has been threatened with suspension after refusing to stand for Australia's national anthem.

Harper Nielson, a student at Kenmore South State School in Brisbane, decided to protest against the anthem because she felt it marginalised indigenous Australians.

According to The Courier Mail, the school told Harper she had to stand or leave the building. When she refused to do either, she was given a detention and made to sign a written apology or she would face suspension.

Harper told The Courier Mail the anthem disregarded Aboriginals, who had lived in Australia long before the country was colonised.

Harper's stand has drawn a mixed response.

Controversial politician Pauline Hanson posted a Facebook video on the issue, saying the Year 4 student should be thrown out of school and calling Harper a "brat".

"Here we have a kid who's been brainwashed - and I tell you what, I'd give her a kick up the backside," Ms Hanson said.

The One Nation leader added that her parents were to blame for her behaviour.

Despite the criticism, The Courier Mail reported that Harper had also received support online with people commending her on her strength and character.

Newshub.