Flying the flag for 125 years of federation

Flying the flag for 125 years of federation Katie Saarikko Thu, 03/09/2026 - 08:52 Today, Australia marks National Flag Day. A significant milestone in our nation’s history, with 2026 commemorating the quasquicentennial (125th anniversary) of the official raising of the Australian National Flag. On 3 September 1901, the Australian National Flag was first officially raised above the Melbourne Royal Exhibition Building. Its design was chosen through a national competition that captured the imagination of the newly federation nation. The competition attracted more than 32,000 entries from people across Australia and overseas, reflecting strong public interest in establishing a national symbol. Remarkably, five entrants from diverse backgrounds independently submitted near-identical designs and shared recognition as the flag’s designers. The Australian National Flag has since been present at defining moments in our nation’s story. It has flown over schools, communities, military deployments, government institutions, sporting triumphs, military service and nationhood commemorations. Serving as an enduring symbol of Australia’s democratic values, resilience and unity. The Australian Nati