Australian National Flag Protocols Explained

The Australian National Flag isn’t just a piece of cloth fluttering in the breeze—it’s a powerful symbol of our identity, history, and national pride. With its distinctive design featuring the Union Jack, the Commonwealth Star, and the Southern Cross, it represents Australia’s past and present. But with that symbolism comes responsibility. There are official protocols in place to ensure the flag is treated with respect and dignity.

In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how, when, and where to fly the Australian National Flag—whether at home, in a schoolyard, during ceremonies, or at half-mast in times of mourning.

The Legal Foundation

While it was first flown in 1901, the Australian National Flag was officially proclaimed as the national flag under the Flags Act 1953. The Act also allows for other official flags (such as the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags), but it gives the national flag precedence in government and formal contexts.

General Flag Etiquette

1. Respectful Display

• The flag should always be treated with dignity, kept clean and in good condition.
• It should never be allowed to touch the ground or be used to cover a statue or monument (except in a ceremonial unveiling).
• The flag must not be used for commercial advertising in a disrespectful manner or printed on items intended to be discarded after temporary use (like serviettes or packaging).

2. Position of Honour

• When flown alone, the Australian National Flag should be centered and raised highest.
• If flown with other flags (state, territory, or foreign), it must:
  • Be hoisted first and lowered last.
  • Be placed in the position of honour, usually to the far left from the observer’s point of view.

When to Fly the Flag

Daily Use

• Government buildings fly the flag every day.
• Schools are encouraged to raise it daily during the school term.
• Homes and private businesses can fly it year-round, especially on national holidays.

Flag Flying Days

The flag should be flown on all national occasions, including:

• 26 January – Australia Day
• 25 April – ANZAC Day (see special notes below)
• 1 September – National Flag Day
• 11 November – Remembrance Day
• As directed by the Prime Minister or Governor-General on special occasions.

Half-Mast Protocols

Flying the flag at half-mast signifies national mourning or respect for someone’s passing.

Key Guidelines:

• On ANZAC Day, the flag is flown at half-mast until midday, then raised to the top of the mast for the rest of the day.
• On Remembrance Day, the flag is not lowered until 10:30 AM and raised again at 11:02 AM, to observe the minute of silence at 11:00.
• The Prime Minister, Premier, or Governor-General may issue instructions to fly the flag at half-mast following a death or tragedy.

How to Half-Mast:

• First, raise the flag to the top of the flagpole, pause briefly, then lower it to a position one-third down from the top.
• When lowering the flag for the day, raise it to the top again briefly, then bring it down completely.

At Home or in Private Spaces

Australians are encouraged to proudly fly the national flag, especially on public holidays or during national events.

• Use a proper flagpole or bracket, and ensure the flag is displayed the right way up.
• If displayed indoors (e.g., in a hall or event), the flag should always be:
  • On the left side of a speaker or podium (observer’s right).
  • Hung with the Union Jack at the top left corner (from the viewer’s perspective).

International Display Rules

When the Australian National Flag is flown with flags of other nations:

• All national flags are to be equal in size.
• They must be flown on separate flagpoles of equal height.
• The Australian flag should be hoisted first and lowered last if it’s the host nation.

Condition and Disposal

A tattered or faded flag should not be flown. It’s a sign of disrespect.

Proper Disposal:

• The flag should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by private burning.
• Do not simply throw it away in a bin.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Flying the flag upside down (this is a sign of distress!)

❌ Letting it touch the ground or become wet or dirty

❌ Flying it at night without illumination

❌ Displaying it with writing or graffiti over the official design

Teaching the Next Generation

Programs like the Australian National Flag Day on 1 September and school flag-raising ceremonies are great opportunities to instill pride and understanding in young Australians about the importance of the flag.

You can even request a free national flag through your local MP for schools, non-profits, and community groups.

The Australian National Flag is more than a symbol—it’s a living emblem of who we are, where we’ve come from, and what we stand for. By following proper flag protocols, we honour its meaning and continue the legacy for generations to come.

Whether you’re hoisting it at home, in school, at a sporting event, or during a moment of silence—fly it proudly, and fly it right.