AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL FLAG RIGHTS AND SIGNIFICANCE
Every Australian Citizen has the right and privilege of flying or displaying the Australian National Flag (ANF), our flag of
“STARS AND CROSSES”, with dignity and respect in accord with the rules of flag etiquette and protocol.
The Australian National Flag is Australia’s chief national symbol by law, custom and tradition, belonging equally to all Australian citizens. Usage of the ANF is shared with Government though, unlike the National Coat of Arms, the Australian National Flag is owned by the people exclusively, under law, in the Commonwealth Flags Act.
The Australian National Flag should be treated with dignity and respect at all times as it identifies and represents our sovereign nation both at home and overseas and all citizens, equally of the Commonwealth of Australia to whom it belongs.
The Flag was chosen from 32,823 entries in a unique public competition in the Federation year, 1901 when it was first flown on 3 September over the Commonwealth Parliament, Melbourne. Australian National Flag Day is officially recognised by Proclamation of the Governor-General. Our Flag Day is celebrated annually on 3 September.
Australia’s youth and our new citizens have the right to full and accurate knowledge of the history, heritage and significance of Australia’s national flag of “Stars and Crosses” which represents the principles and ideals on which our country was founded and the inheritance of future generations.
John Christian Vaughan, National Spokesman
Australian National Flag Association
