We note that, on 3/09/2025, Australia's National Flag Day, during Question Time, the President of the Senate made the following ruling:

“A point of order was taken asking whether wearing the Australian flag over a senator's jacket amounted to the use of a prop… noting the contribution of senators to the point of order, I intend to refer the matter to the procedure committee for discussion. Until the procedure committee can discuss the matter, I endorse the direction of the Deputy President earlier today that senators should not wear any flags as a garment to avoid setting a precedent.”

We believe this position is unacceptable. The Australian flag is not a “prop.” It is the living symbol of our nation, representing the sacrifice of those who fought under it, the unity of our people, and the sovereignty of Australia. To treat it as an object of theatre is to diminish its meaning.

We note the Senate has permitted the wearing of garments bearing the Indigenous flag, partly on the basis that the Senate itself has ordered its display. By the same principle, the national flag of Australia—our primary symbol of unity—must be treated with the greatest dignity, above all other flags.

Therefore, we respectfully petition the Senate take the necessary action required to:

1. Formally rule that the wearing of the Australian flag by senators in the chamber does not constitute the use of a “prop.”
2. Affirm the right of senators to display and wear the Australian flag with pride within the Senate.
3. Ensure consistency and fairness in the treatment of our national symbols, so that the Australian flag is not regarded as theatrical or improper.

Australians expect their representatives to honour and respect the national flag. We, the undersigned, demand that Parliament lead by example and protect the dignity of the Australian flag in the Senate.