Flag of Australia

Official Palette

• #012169
• #FFFFFF
• #E4002B

Symbolism

The Union Jack in the canton acknowledges Australia's historical ties to Great Britain. The large Commonwealth Star (seven points) represents the six original states and the territories. The five stars on the fly side represent the Southern Cross constellation, visible in the Australian night sky.

History

The design was chosen from a 1901 public competition following the Federation of Australia. It was officially approved by King Edward VII in 1903, and the current 7-pointed Commonwealth Star version was adopted in 1908.

Construction

A blue ensign in a 1:2 ratio. The Union Jack occupies the upper hoist quarter, the Commonwealth Star is centered in the lower hoist quarter, and the Southern Cross occupies the fly half.

Color Meanings

Lookalike Comparison

Side-by-side analysis of high-confusion flags, comparing exact color shades, proportions, and historical divergence.

Direct Lookalike Comparison

Australia 1:2

New Zealand 1:2

Quick Tell

Australia has white 7-pointed stars and includes the large Commonwealth Star; New Zealand has 4 red 5-pointed stars edged in white.

Historical Divergence

Both are British Blue Ensigns featuring the Southern Cross. New Zealand adopted its flag in 1902, two years before Australia finalized its constellation design.

Practice in Similarities Mode

Flags with resemblance

Both carry the Union Jack on navy blue. Australia adds a large seven-point star; New Zealand's Southern Cross stars are red with a white edge.

Related flags

Flag Protocol

• The Union Jack must always be in the upper hoist quarter
• The flag should be flown with the Southern Cross on the fly side
• Must be illuminated if flown at night