Australia’s National Flag was proudly displayed throughout the nation and around the world this week, marking the annual Australian National Flag Day which flapped up last Sunday (3 September).
Paraded by the country’s defence forces and displayed around the country at sporting events and by service organisations, schools, community groups and citizens, the Australian National Flag Day celebrates the first time the flag was officially flown at the Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne in 1901 – the home of Australia’s first Parliament.
According to the Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister and Public Service, Patrick Gorman, this year’s event commemorated the 122nd anniversary of the first time the Australian National Flag was flown, and was an opportunity for all Australians to celebrate with national pride.
“This year also marks 70 years of the Flags Act 1953,” Mr Gorman said.
He said the flag had been flown both in celebration and mourning and affirming Australians strong values and freedoms as well as a confident future.
“I encourage all Australians to celebrate this day, and to reflect on what the flag represents as an icon of our shared identity and what it means to belong to our country,” Mr Gorman said.
“This day is an opportunity for individuals, community organisations, local authorities, businesses and schools to celebrate the anniversary of the Australian National Flag.”
He said the Australian flag was chosen through a national design competition.
“Our flag is owned by all Australians along with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags,” Mr Gorman said.
“All Australians are encouraged to fly or display the Australian National Flag to celebrate Australian National Flag Day,” the Assistant Minister said.
