Australia is a relatively young country, with its full inception in 1901. That is also the year when the Australian National Flag came to existence. The Blue Ensign was chosen to become the most important symbol of the country, and the nation’s identity began to develop. Flag Day falls on September 3 and is an important celebration of Australian patriotism. It is the day when the individual character of the country is emphasized, and the communal bond among its people strengthened. Some citizens and authorities also take time to commemorate the Australian Merchant Navy and all its historical endeavors to fight for the country.

The flag was chosen as a result of the Federal Flag Design Competition proclaimed by the first Australian Prime Minister Edward Barton. The background of the initially established draft was blue, but in 1903 the British King Edward VII approved of the Commonwealth red ensign that would represent the Merchant Navy. The use of two ensigns was confusing for the Australian public, which is why the Flags Act 1953 distinguished the blue one as the official flag and the red one as a symbol of merchant ships. The idea to honor the Australian flag with a special date was issued by the historian and vexillographer John Christian Vaughan in 1984. Within the next few years, he would repeatedly insist on the importance of Flag Day. On August 28, 1996, his endeavors resulted in a national observance of the holiday. It was the 95th anniversary of the flag’s adoption when National Flag Day was introduced into the Australian calendar by the Governor General Sir William Deane.

The holiday is not public in Australia, which is why no institutions nor businesses in the country are bound to be closed. It is, however, and important day of affirmation for many Australians; the flag represents their national pride and it is the first symbol ever made of the country as a separate entity. September 3 is a good day for contemplation and remembrance of not only the Merchant Navy, but all significant people who contributed to the nation’s prosperity. The celebration of the date is usually educational, since schools and universities take this opportunity to lecture on the importance of the flag and patriotic love. The Governor General, the Prime Minister and other officials participate in flag-related ceremonies. Every year on Flag Day, Australian citizens have the chance to experience a revival of faith in their country and to express their patriotism, e.g. by displaying the Australian National Flag on their houses.