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AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL FLAG DAY 3 SEPTEMBER 2005
Today we celebrate the 105th anniversary of the Australian National Flag. Since 1901,
the Australian National Flag has served as a symbol of our great nation, and is the flag
under which the men and women of the Australian Defence Force have carried out
their duties both in Australia and overseas. It has become a symbol and a reminder
around the world of their courage, mateship, dedication to duty and, above all, the
sacrifices they have made to defend Australia and its interests.
At every Defence location and on every uniform you will find the Australian National
Flag. You can see the honour and respect that the men and women have for our
national flag in the raising and lowering ceremonies, in the salutes and honours that
accompany it, and in the care shown for every single flag in the Australian Defence
Force, no matter where it is flown. This care and respect goes beyond the flag itself; it
is a symbol of loyalty to Australia, care for our country, and pride in the job these men
and women do.
I am proud of the Australian National Flag, and the history of our country that it
represents. I encourage all Australians to on Australian National Flag Day to
remember not only the country this flag represents, but also the people – those who
have volunteered to defend Australia, and do so bearing the Australian National Flag
proudly wherever they may be.
DR BRENDAN NELSON MP
Member for Bradfield
Minister for Defence
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Flag Day
