Today ceremonies around the country will mark National Flag Day, an annual day proclaimed by Governor General Sir William Deane in 1996.

The current Australian flag was chosen from a national public competition in 1901 which received 32,823 entries!

The flag is a powerful symbol used when we come together as a nation, be it for celebration or commemoration. Should it be updated to reflect the changes that have happened since it was chosen 107 years ago?

We asked John Vaughan from the Australian National Flag Association and Harold Scruby from, the Executive Director of Ausflag to put the case for and against.

The case against - John Vaughan, Vexillographer (expert in flags), Australian National Flag Association

John's interest in the flag grew from his father and grandfather always flying the Australian flag at home

He says the Australian flag is important to the national psyche because it reflects our law, customs and traditions, and the stars and crosses remind us of our hard won political freedoms. The stars stand for freedom of speech, rule of law and freedom of assembly, and the Southern Cross represents our geographical position and Australia’s states.
 

The case for - Harold Scruby, Executive Director, Ausflag

Ausflag was established in 1981 to push for 'the adoption of an Australian flag, anthem, and colours.' Ausflag are calling for a flag which:

• clearly and unequivocally proclaims our identity to other nations
• internationally recognisable and not confusing to other nations
• unites the Australian nation in all its diversity

Harold says many Aussie athletes during the Olympic Games had flags draped over their shoulders and you could only see the Union Jack, and couldn't tell us apart from Britain; when the Union Jack in the top left corner of the flag it dominates.

Pictured is Harold's proposed flag design.

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has said 'On Australian National Flag Day, I encourage all Australians to fly or display the Australian National Flag proudly in their homes, their schools and communities.'

More info:
www.australianflag.org.au
www.flagaustnat.asn.au
www.ausflag.com.au