Aboriginal flag and Torres Strait Islander flag

We're diving deep into the Aboriginal flag and the Torres Strait Islander flag today.
You need to understand these flags.
They aren't just pieces of cloth.
They represent history, culture, and identity for First Nations peoples in Australia.
This guide breaks down their symbols, history, and why they matter so much.
We'll cover how the Aboriginal flag's copyright change affects things and the rules for the Torres Strait Islander flag.
Plus, we'll look at how to show respect when you display them.
Understanding these flags is key to genuine respect and reconciliation – it’s about appreciating the depth behind symbols explored in resources like Our Flag, Our Story.
Stick with me, and you'll get the full picture.
This knowledge matters if you care about Australia's story.
We’ll cover the design meanings, the creation stories, the journey to official recognition, copyright details, cultural weight, and how to fly them right.
Think of this as your complete guide to the Aboriginal flag and Torres Strait Islander flag.

 

Unpacking the Aboriginal Flag and Torres Strait Islander Flag: Why They Matter

You see them flying.
At events, on buildings, maybe even on stickers or shirts.
But do you really know the story behind the Aboriginal flag and the Torres Strait Islander flag?
These flags are vital.
They are official flags of Australia, standing alongside the national blue ensign.
More than that, they are powerful symbols for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
They represent connection to Country, culture, history, and resilience.
Ignoring them? Big mistake.
Understanding them? That's the first step towards meaningful respect.
It shows you see, acknowledge, and value the oldest living cultures on Earth.
This isn't just about protocol; it's about people.
It’s about acknowledging sovereignty never ceded, a powerful statement captured visually on items like our popular sticker: Always Was, Always Will Be.

In this article, I'm going deep.
No surface-level stuff.
We'll dissect the meanings, trace the histories, and tackle the sometimes-tricky subject of usage rights.
You'll walk away knowing exactly what these flags stand for and how to engage with them respectfully.
Let's get into it.

The Story of the Aboriginal Flag

This flag? Iconic.
Instantly recognisable.
But let's break down what you're actually seeing.

Aboriginal Flag Design and Symbolism: More Than Just Colours

It looks simple: three blocks of colour.
But the meaning? Profound.
It was designed by Harold Thomas, a Luritja man from Central Australia, back in 1971.
He didn't just pick random colours.
Each one tells a piece of a massive story.

• Black: This represents the Aboriginal peoples of Australia. Placed at the top, grounding the flag. Simple. Powerful.

• Red: This bottom section holds deep meanings. It symbolises the earth, the red ochre used in ceremonies, and the spiritual connection to the land. It also represents the blood shed defending that land. A colour of life and struggle.

• Yellow: The circle in the centre is the sun. The constant giver of life. It connects the people (black) and the land (red).

Think about how they work together.
The people stand on the earth, under the life-giving sun.
It's a complete picture.
A statement of existence, connection, and endurance.

Here's a simple table to lock it in:

It's not just colours on fabric.
It's a declaration. An identity. A story stretching back millennia.

History of the Aboriginal Flag: From Protest to Proclamation

The Aboriginal flag wasn't born in a committee room.
It was born from activism. From a need for a symbol.

The Creator: Harold Thomas
Harold Thomas, a Luritja artist, designed it in 1971 for his people, seeing the need for unity in the fight for rights.

1971: A Time of Change
The late 60s/early 70s pulsed with the Aboriginal rights movement. Land rights were a key battle. A flag was needed.

First Hoisted: National Aborigines Day
First flown in Adelaide, 12 July 1971. A powerful debut.

The Aboriginal Tent Embassy
Its prominence exploded in 1972 at the Tent Embassy in Canberra. It became the symbol of Aboriginal political struggle, seen nationwide. The spirit of standing up for rights is timeless, echoed in messages like those on our Get Up Stand Up Sticker.

The Road to Recognition
Embraced by communities and activists, it grew in significance.
On 14 July 1995, it was proclaimed an official 'Flag of Australia'. Formal recognition. A massive step.

From protest to proclamation. It shows the power of symbols and the persistence of the people it represents.

Aboriginal Flag Copyright and Usage: A New Era

This got complicated, then changed dramatically.

The Copyright Story
Harold Thomas held the copyright. As commercial use grew, licensing became contentious. Companies like WAM Clothing held exclusive licenses, leading to controversies and the #FreeTheFlag campaign. People felt the flag should belong to the people.

Commonwealth Takes Ownership (2022)
The government brokered a $20.05 million deal to acquire the copyright from Harold Thomas in January 2022. Game changer.

What it Means Now:

• Free Use: The Aboriginal flag image is free for everyone to use respectfully. Put it on clothes, websites, merchandise. No more Commonwealth licensing fees. You can grab an Aboriginal Flag Sticker now without those old copyright worries.

• Respect is Key: Harold Thomas wanted unity. Use it respectfully.

• No Alterations: Use the design as intended. No additions or changes.

• Commercial Use: Businesses can use it, but respectful use is expected. Carroll & Richardson Flagworld remain exclusive manufacturers of physical flags, but reproducing the image is free.

Guidelines for Respectful Use:

• Display correctly: Fly it the right way up (black on top).

• Context matters: Avoid cheap, disposable items. Don't use it to promote division.

• Acknowledge meaning: Use it to honour its significance.

This copyright resolution returned the flag to the community, emphasizing free but respectful use.

The Torres Strait Islander Flag: A Symbol of Sea, Land, and Sky

Just as vital, just as symbolic.
The Torres Strait Islander flag represents the distinct culture and identity of the people from the islands between Cape York and Papua New Guinea.

Torres Strait Islander Flag Design and Symbolism: Deep Connections

This flag tells its story through colour and symbol.
Designed by the late Bernard Namok from Thursday Island in 1992. He was only 15!

Let's break it down:

• Green: Two stripes representing the land, the islands.

• Blue: Central panel for the sea, the Torres Strait. Crucial for life, travel, culture.

• Black: Thin lines dividing green/blue, representing the Torres Strait Islander peoples.

• White Dhari (Headdress): The centrepiece. A traditional feathered headdress symbolising identity, culture, and peace (white).

• White Five-Pointed Star: Beneath the Dhari. Represents:

  • Navigation (stars guided seafarers).

  • The five major island groups (unity).

  • Hope and the future (sometimes linked historically to the 'light of Christianity').

It's a map of identity: land, sea, people, culture, unity, peace.

Here’s a quick reference table:

Understanding these elements reveals the flag's depth and connection to a unique maritime culture.

History of the Torres Strait Islander Flag: A Quest for Recognition

This flag asserts a distinct identity.

The Designer: Bernard Namok
Designed the flag in 1992 for a competition run by the Island Coordinating Council (ICC). The goal: a symbol for all Torres Strait Islanders.

1992: The Need for a Symbol
A time of cultural resurgence and political assertion. The landmark Mabo decision (recognising native title, originating from Mer/Murray Island in the Torres Strait) happened in June 1992. A flag was part of this movement. Namok's design won.

Adoption and Recognition
Adopted by the ICC, it quickly gained acceptance.
Like the Aboriginal flag, it was proclaimed an official 'Flag of Australia' on 14 July 1995.
This joint recognition affirmed Australia has two distinct Indigenous peoples: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Crucial.

Having this distinct flag prevents homogenisation and celebrates the unique cultures of the Torres Strait.

Torres Strait Islander Flag Copyright and Usage: Understanding the Rules

Different from the Aboriginal flag's current situation. Important to know.

Copyright Holder: TSIRC
Copyright held by the Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC), acting as custodian for the people.

Usage Rules:

• Permission Needed for Commercial Use: You must get written permission from TSIRC to reproduce the flag on items for sale. They manage licensing for respectful use and community benefit.

• Community and Personal Use: Generally okay for non-commercial community or respectful personal use without permission, but always prioritize respect.

• Respectful Display: Follow protocols. No alterations. Fly correctly.

• Check with TSIRC: If unsure, especially commercially, contact TSIRC.

Why the Difference?
The flag was commissioned via an official body (ICC/TSIRC). Keeping copyright with TSIRC protects collective rights through their representative body.

So, while you might see both flags on items like our First Nations Flag Sticker, manufacturers need specific TSIRC permission for commercial runs of only the TSI flag. Respect the process.

Cultural Significance and Contemporary Relevance: Why These Flags Endure

Okay, designs, history, rules covered.
Why do the Aboriginal flag and Torres Strait Islander flag matter so much today?

Importance to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities

These flags are lifelines. Heartbeats. Anchors.

• Identity: Powerful affirmations against historical suppression. "We are here. We are proud." A personal connection.

• Unity: Unifying symbols across diverse Aboriginal nations and Torres Strait island groups. Collective strength.

• Resilience and Survival: Born from struggle, they represent enduring cultures against colonisation. Flying them is defiance against erasure. Celebrate survival.

• Connection to Country/Sea: Symbolism reinforces deep spiritual ties to land and water. Fundamental to existence, exploring themes found in Aboriginal Creation Story traditions.

• Use in Ceremonies and Gatherings: Central to community life.

  • Funerals: Draped over coffins, honouring identity.

  • Celebrations: Flown at festivals, events, graduations. Joy and pride.

  • Meetings and Protests: Symbols of strength and solidarity. People might wear Purpose Pins showing alignment.

These flags embody hope, struggle, pride, and the enduring spirit of the world's oldest living cultures.

Role in Wider Australian Society

Their significance extends into broader Australia.

• Official Recognition: Flying on government buildings, schools, official events. Visibility aids acknowledgment.

• NAIDOC Week: Central to celebrations, reminding all of the cultures, histories, achievements.

• Reconciliation: Key symbols. Displaying them signals respect and commitment (e.g., in Reconciliation Action Plans).

• Education: Used in schools to teach Indigenous histories and cultures. Fundamental to Australia's full story. Simple tools like a Sticker Sheet with the flags can help.

• Public Spaces: Increasingly flown permanently by councils, businesses, groups. Normalises presence, acknowledges Traditional Owners.

• Sporting Events: Prominent during Indigenous rounds (AFL, NRL etc.). Celebrates talent and contribution.

Their presence challenges Australia towards inclusivity. Conversation starters. Reminders.

Personal Stories and Connections: Hearing the Voices

(Illustrative sentiments reflecting publicly shared feelings):

• Pride: "Seeing our flag... my heart swells. We’re seen, we matter." Validation.

• Ancestral Connection: "The colours link me back. To Elders, Dreaming, ancestors. It's spiritual." Understanding cultural expression like Aboriginal Dot Painting or the works of artists like Aboriginal Art Claude Carter deepens this connection.

• Hope: "Despite everything, the flag flies. Represents survival, strength. Hope for our kids."

• Call to Action: "Reminds me there's work for recognition, justice, treaty. Fuels my fire."

• Importance for Youth: "Crucial for young ones to see their flag, know its meaning. Gives strength in identity." Educational stories like Jack's First Shirt can also play a role in grounding youth in culture.

These feelings show the flags are lived symbols, interwoven with identity, history, and aspirations.

Practical Guide to Displaying the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flags

You get the importance. Now, show respect in practice.
Using the flags correctly matters.

Respectful Display: Getting the Protocols Right

There are established ways to fly the flags respectfully. Getting it wrong can offend.

Key Protocols:

1. Order of Precedence: Standard protocol in Australia:

   • 1st: Australian National Flag

   • 2nd: Other National flag(s)

   • 3rd: State/Territory flag

   • 4th: Aboriginal Flag

   • 5th: Torres Strait Islander Flag

   • 6th: Other flags (UN, local govt etc.)

   • Note: Some orgs may fly Aboriginal/TSI flags more prominently (flanking National Flag, equal height) reflecting reconciliation commitments. Never fly them lower than state/other flags.

2. Flying on the Same Pole: Separate poles preferred for equal status. If shared, National Flag on top. Avoid putting Aboriginal/TSI flags below National Flag on the same pole; use multiple poles.

3. Flying with Other Flags:

   • Two poles: National Flag left (observer's view).

   • Three poles: National Flag centre, Aboriginal Flag left, Torres Strait Islander Flag right.

4. Orientation: Crucial!

   • Aboriginal Flag: Black top, red bottom, yellow circle centre.

   • Torres Strait Islander Flag: Green top/bottom, blue middle with Dhari/Star.

5. Condition: Use clean, undamaged flags. Retire damaged ones respectfully.

6. Half-Mast: For mourning, follow National Flag protocols or specific Indigenous community guidance.

Respectful Use Beyond Flying:

• Don't Alter: No defacing, no adding logos.

• Don't Use as Drapery/Covering: Avoid use as tablecloths, seat covers etc. (respectfully designed clothing is different).

• Ceremonial Use: Ensure appropriateness for the cultural context.

Consultation is Key:
For permanent displays or significant events, consult local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities/Elders. Their guidance is invaluable. This consultation is respect.

Here’s that three-pole arrangement again:

Following protocols shows you've done your homework.

Educational Resources: Learning and Teaching About the Flags

Understanding breeds respect. Great ways to learn and teach exist.

• School Activities: Meaning matching, history timelines, designer bios, researching local Traditional Owners, creative responses.

• Visual Aids: Posters, stickers like the Aboriginal Flag Sticker or the combined First Nations Flag Sticker.

• Online Resources: Dept. Prime Minister & Cabinet (protocols), AIATSIS (culture), Reconciliation Australia (context), TSIRC (TSI flag specifics).

• Community Engagement: Invite local Elders/community members (follow protocol, offer reciprocity).

Education ensures future generations appreciate these vital symbols.

Common Misconceptions and FAQs: Clearing Up Confusion

Let's tackle some frequent questions.

• Q: Are they "official" flags?

  • A: Yes. Proclaimed 'Flags of Australia' under the Flags Act 1953 since 1995.

• Q: Can anyone fly them?

  • A: Yes, respectfully and following protocol. Encouraged as a sign of respect.

• Q: Permission needed for Aboriginal flag image?

  • A: Generally no, since 2022 Commonwealth copyright acquisition. Use respectfully, don't alter. Image use is free.

• Q: Permission needed for Torres Strait Islander flag image?

  • A: Yes, for commercial use (items for sale) from TSIRC. Non-commercial/personal use usually okay if respectful. Check with TSIRC if unsure.

• Q: Why two flags? Aren't they the same people?

  • A: No. Aboriginal peoples (mainland/Tasmania) and Torres Strait Islander peoples (Torres Strait Islands) are distinct groups with unique cultures. Separate flags respect this.

• Q: Can I wear the flag colours?

  • A: Yes, commonly done respectfully (NAIDOC, sports). Pins, clothing, even fun items like Shoe Charms featuring colours/designs are popular ways to show support, if sourced/used respectfully.

• Q: Disrespectful to use flags on merchandise?

  • A: Context matters. Respectful use on quality items, especially benefiting Indigenous businesses, is generally accepted (especially now for Aboriginal flag). Avoid trivialising uses.

Addressing these helps ensure informed, respectful engagement.

Flying High with Understanding

So, there you have it.
The deep dive into the Aboriginal flag and the Torres Strait Islander flag.
Not just designs; powerful declarations. Symbols of the world's oldest living cultures.
Representing distinct peoples, histories, struggles, triumphs.
Black, red, yellow: people, earth, sun.
Green, blue, black, white Dhari, star: land, sea, people, culture, unity.
Understanding their history (Harold Thomas, Bernard Namok, official recognition) is vital.
Knowing the copyright (Aboriginal flag free use; TSI flag commercial permission needed) helps navigate practicalities.
Recognising their profound cultural significance allows genuine respect. Emblems of identity, resilience, connection – explore more through resources like Our Flag, Our Story.

What now?

• Learn More: Keep exploring. Read. Listen. Check out FISH resources like our blogs.

• Display Respectfully: Follow protocols if flying/using flags. Show you care. Start simple with a sticker or pin.

• Engage Thoughtfully: Participate in NAIDOC. Support Indigenous businesses. Be an ally.

These flags challenge Australia. Be better. More inclusive. More understanding.
Honour the story and the people behind the Aboriginal flag and Torres Strait Islander flag.