The Importance of the Aboriginal flag

The Aboriginal flag is an official flag of Australia and was recognised under Federal legislation in July 1995. Designed by Aboriginal Elder Harold Thomas in 1971, this flag symbolises Aboriginal identity. Mr Thomas has been recognised as the designer of the Aboriginal flag. The Flag has strong symbolic meaning for Aboriginal Australians.

As stated by Mr Harold Thomas:

Black: represents the Aboriginal people of Australia

Red: represents the red earth, the red ochre and a spiritual relation to the land

Yellow: represents the Sun, the giver of life and protector.

Practical tip:

The Aboriginal flag should be flown or displayed with the black at the top and the red at the bottom.

Displaying the Aboriginal flag (correctly) in a school setting can be used to promote a sense of community partnership and demonstrate our commitment towards closing the gap.

Contributed by Sue Norman published in 2015.