Australian National Flag Day on 3 September marks the first time the Australian National Flag was flown during Australia’s year of Federation. On this date in 1901, the Rt Hon Edmund Barton announced the winners of an international competition to design a flag for our nation. A flag, measuring 5.5 metres by 11 metres, was flown over the dome of the Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne, the site of Australia’s first Parliament.
This year marks the 125th anniversary of Federation, the adoption of the Constitution, the first sitting of Commonwealth Parliament on 9 May 1901, and the first official flying of the Australian National Flag. Australian National Flag Day is an opportunity for all Australians to come together to celebrate the values of fairness, aspiration and opportunity that unite us.
In accordance with flag protocol, Australian Government departments and portfolio agencies are requested to fly or display the Australian National Flag all day on Thursday 3 September 2026. Other organisations are encouraged to follow this protocol.
The date of 3 September also marks Merchant Navy Day, which commemorates the service and sacrifice of thousands of Australia’s merchant mariners during wartime operations. Organisations and individuals observing Merchant Navy Day may fly the Australian red ensign. When the Australian red ensign is flown along with the Australian National Flag, the Australian National Flag should be flown in the position of honour.
Additional information on how to acknowledge Australian National Flag Day and the protocols for flying the flag can be found on the Department’s website.
Your assistance is appreciated.
Commonwealth Flag Officer