Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags

This web page is published by Reconciliation Australia, a national organisation that promotes reconciliation between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the broader Australian community. It covers the background, design, meaning, and practical use of Australia's two First Nations flags: the Aboriginal Flag and the Torres Strait Islander Flag. Both were recognised as official national flags under Commonwealth legislation in 1995.

The Aboriginal Flag was designed by Harold Thomas, a Luritja man from Central Australia, and first flown in Adelaide in 1971. The Torres Strait Islander Flag was designed by the late Bernard Namok of Thursday Island and recognised in 1992. The page explains the symbolism of each flag's colours and symbols in plain terms.

The page also provides practical guidance on how to display the flags with respect. It covers rules around flagpole height, flag size, lighting, condition, and orientation, and notes that local communities should be consulted before the flags are raised. It explains the order of precedence when the flags are flown alongside the Australian National Flag.

Copyright rules are covered for both flags. The Aboriginal Flag copyright is now held by the Commonwealth Government and can be reproduced freely in a respectful way. The Torres Strait Islander Flag copyright is held by the Torres Strait Island Regional Council, and written permission is required before reproducing it. The page also encourages purchasing flag-related products from Indigenous-owned businesses and provides links to several directories and suppliers.

This resource is most useful for organisations, community groups, event organisers, and social enterprise practitioners who want to use or display the flags correctly and respectfully.