The Australian Flag was adopted at the time of federation of 6 distinct British colonies into the Commonwealth of Australian on 1 January, 1901. The Commonwealth Blue Ensign was selected a a result of a public competition from over 30,000 designs. Five strikingly similar designs won the competition.Apart from a minor change in 1908, the flag has remained unchanged since then. It was first flown at the Exhibition Building in Melbourne on 3 September 1901,which is commemorated annually as Australian National Flag Day. The flag has been to war, missions of peace and has been championed in sport.

The design of the flag is derived from the British Blue Ensign,and consists of a dark blue field that can be notionally divided into four quadrants. There is a different motif in each of the upper and lower hoist quadrants and the remaining two quadrants of the fly share another different constellation motif. The Union Jack in the upper hoist quadrant or first quarter (also know as the Canton), denoting Australia's historical links with Great Britain. The Southern Cross in the second quarter consists of five stars in a more or less kite-like pattern The constellation of the Southern Cross is a significant navigational feature of the southern hemisphere, and is strongly connected with the Australian continent geographically. The Commonwealth Star or Star of Federationin the third quarter or lower hoist, denotes the six states and the combined territories of the Commonwealth. The star was amended in 1909 from a six pointed star to a seven.

The Commonwealth Blue Ensign was made official in 1953 by act of the Australian Parliament. In later days with Australians discussing the concept of Republican government, the flag is the topic of much discussion. Groups in Australia are lobbying to remove the British influence in the flag and make it more Australian. Time will tell if this change happens.

Flag Measures 36 in x 60 in and is 100% polyester with grommets for easy flying.