Australian Flags booklet

Australian Flags can be used as an educational resource and a source of general information about the history and proper use of the Australian National Flag and other flags of Australia by the Australian community, flag marshals and visitors to Australia.

Flying and handling

When flown in Australia or on Australian territory the Australian National Flag takes precedence over all other flags. See the order of precedence when flying the Australian National Flag in company with other flags.

The flag should not be flown in a position inferior to that of any other flag or ensign. The superior position is based on the formation of the flagpoles in the set, not the height of the flag on the flagpole.

The flag should not be smaller than that of any other flag or ensign.

The flag should be raised briskly and lowered with dignity.

The flag should always be flown aloft and free as close as possible to the top of the flag mast, with the rope tightly secured.

Unless all the flags can be raised and lowered simultaneously, the Australian National Flag should be raised first and lowered last when flown with other flags.

When the flag is raised or lowered, or when it is carried in a parade or review, all present should face the flag and remain silent. Those in uniform should salute.

The flag should be raised no earlier than first light and should be lowered no later than dusk.

The flag may only be flown at night when illuminated.

Two flags should not be flown from the same flagpole.

The flag should not be flown upside down, even as a signal of distress.