Torres Strait Islander Flag facts for kids
 |
|
| Proportion | 2:3 or 1:2 (here) |
|---|---|
| Adopted | 14 July 1995 |
| Designed by | Bernard Namok |
The Torres Strait Islander Flag is an important flag of Australia. It represents the Torres Strait Islander people. Bernard Namok designed this flag in 1992. It won a local competition held by the Islands Coordinating Council. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission officially recognized it in June 1992.
Contents
What the Flag Means
The Torres Strait Islander Flag is full of special meanings. Each color and symbol tells a story about the Torres Strait Islander people and their home.
Colors and Their Meanings
The flag uses several colors, and each one stands for something important:
- Green panels at the top and bottom of the flag show the land.
- The blue panel in the middle represents the waters of the Torres Strait.
- Thin black stripes between the green and blue panels stand for the Torres Strait Islanders themselves.
- White symbolizes peace.
Symbols on the Flag
There are two main symbols in the center of the flag:
- A white five-pointed star represents the five main island groups. These are the Western, Eastern, Central, Port Kennedy, and Mainland (N.P.A.) groups. The star is also a symbol for navigation, helping people find their way.
- A white dhari (also called dari) is a traditional ceremonial dancer's headdress. This symbol also represents the Torres Strait Islands people.
Official Recognition of the Flag
The Government of Australia officially made the Torres Strait Islander Flag a Flag of Australia. This happened on 14 July 1995, under a law called the Flags Act 1953.
In 2008, the flag was again officially recognized. The government said it "is recognized as the flag of the Torres Strait Islander people of Australia." It is also seen as "a flag of significance to the Australian nation generally."
Who Owns the Flag's Design?
Bernard Namok, who designed the flag, has passed away. However, the flag's design is still protected by Australian copyright law. This means that people need permission to use it in certain ways. The Torres Strait Island Regional Council now manages the copyright. They usually allow copies of the flag if they are accurate and if Bernard Namok is named as the designer.
Where You Can See the Flag
The Torres Strait Islander Flag is often displayed in public places. This shows respect and recognition for the Torres Strait Islander people.
- In Adelaide, South Australia, the Torres Strait Islander flag is flown permanently. It is displayed alongside the Aboriginal flag in front of the Adelaide Town Hall.
- After the 2022 federal election, the new government started displaying both the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags. They are shown next to the national flag at official press conferences.
- Both flags are also now displayed in the House of Representatives and Senate chambers.
- Since May 2022, both flags have been flown permanently at Government House, Adelaide. They are displayed with the national flag and the South Australian flag.
Other Island Flags
Many individual Torres Strait Islands also have their own unique flags. These flags represent the specific communities and their cultures.
-
Flag of Murray Island
-
Flag of Saibai Island
.svg)
See Also
- Flags of Australia
- Aboriginal Flag
- Ethnic flag
