Good question and I don't know. Let's ask Google.
From the Qantas website:
Qantas was founded in the Queensland outback in 1920. Registered originally as the Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial Services Limited (QANTAS), we have built a reputation for excellence in safety, operational reliability, engineering and maintenance, and customer service.
There you go, we both learned something today!
Thank you!! It's been a qandry that's bothered me since I flew the line from Hong Kong to Sydney in 1970. I really enjoy learning something new each day.