THE Coalition Government is asking the community for feedback to determine an appropriate way for Australians to retire used, damaged and worn Australian National Flags. 

Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister Senator James McGrath says existing protocols around the use of the National Flag did not include specific guidelines on how to retire a damaged or dilapidated flag with appropriate dignity and respect.

“Currently, our Flag Protocols state that when the material of a flag deteriorates it should be destroyed privately and in a dignified way, however there is often confusion about how best to achieve this,” says McGrath. 

“Our National Flag is a symbol of great importance to all Australians, so it seems fitting that people have the opportunity to reflect on the significance of our flag in a meaningful way at the end of its service also.”

McGrath says a “Flag Retirement Protocol Consultation Paper” had been sent to key stakeholders around Australia to start this “important discussion”.

“In particular, the government is interested in community views on changes to the flag protocols to include guidance on conducting a retirement ceremony for used Australian National Flags,” says McGrath. 

“We believe this may be a good option for schools, clubs, or organisations looking for a sense of formality around flag retirement.”

Chair of the Australian National Flag Association Mr Allan Pidgeon says the proposed changes would offer the community a more dignified way to retire a National Flag.

“The Australian National Flag is proudly displayed by many community organisations, schools, clubs and individuals around Australia, as a symbol of great honour and pride,” says Pidgeon.

“The inclusion of a retirement ceremony in the official flag protocols would ensure the national flag was appropriately decommissioned, whilst providing an opportunity to reflect on the flag, its history and its symbolic importance to our nation.”

Provide feedback via dpmc.gov.au/flag

Submissions are due by end of February 2017.