Honours and symbols

Australia's national symbols remind us and inform the world of our distinct culture and heritage. The Australian honours system is how we recognise, celebrate and say thank you to those who make a difference, those who achieve their best and those who serve others.

Australia has a system of honours and awards to recognise excellence, achievement and meritorious service or contributions to our society. The Australian honours system awards those citizens who have contributed to a better society because of their sacrifice, service and achievement. Recipients of awards are role models of our values and standards.

Our national symbols are designed to unite us as a nation and define us in a world of great cultural complexity. Our symbols represent what is unique about the nation, reflecting different aspects of our cultural life and history.

For enquiries about Australian honours and symbols, contact the Honours and Symbols Section, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.

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PM&C provides policy advice to the Prime Minister on the operation of the Australian honours system.

PM&C provides information and advice on other official flags of Australia.

Resources

Australian National Flag Protocols

Flag setup: conferences or meetings

Honours and symbols

Chief Officer's Manual for the National Medal

Australian flags

Australian red ensign fact sheet

Australian National Flag

Australian National Flag fact sheet