Flag Care & Etiquette: How to Respect and Maintain Your Australian Flag
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Flag care & etiquette guide
How to Respect, Maintain and Display the Australian Flag
Displaying the Australian flag is an act of pride, remembrance and respect. Whether you are raising the Australian National Flag, Aboriginal Flag, Torres Strait Island Flag or another official flag, correct care and handling helps preserve both the fabric and the meaning behind it.
Quick guide
Two things matter: care and protocol
A flag is a textile exposed to wind, sun and rain — but it is also a symbol. This guide covers both practical maintenance and respectful display.
Flag care
Learn how to wash, dry, store and rotate your flag so it stays brighter and lasts longer outdoors.
Flag etiquette
Understand respectful display rules, including when to fly, how to hang and what not to do.
Replacement planning
Know when a flag is too faded or worn to display, and when to replace or rotate it.
Flag care
Extend the life of your flag
Australian flags are designed for outdoor use, but even quality fabric can wear quickly in strong sun, high wind, coastal conditions and heavy rain.
Take it down in extreme weather
High winds, storms and prolonged UV exposure are the biggest threats to flag life. Remove the flag during severe weather where possible.
Avoid flying 24/7
Flags flown during daylight hours only usually last longer. Bringing your flag in at dusk helps preserve colour and stitching.
Store it dry
Moisture can cause mould and mildew. Always allow your flag to dry fully before folding or storing it in a cool, dry place.
Use mild detergent
Wash gently with cold water and mild soap. Avoid bleach and harsh detergents that can damage fabric and colour.
Rotate two flags
Using two flags in rotation can significantly extend usable life, especially for councils, schools and sites flying flags every day.
Replace worn flags respectfully
A badly faded, torn or frayed flag should be retired and replaced so it continues to be displayed with dignity.
Washing your flag
How to wash an Australian flag
- Hand wash with a gentle detergent.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove residue.
- Air dry flat or on a line in the shade.
- Never tumble dry.
- Avoid bleach and harsh cleaning products.
Folding method
Traditional Australian flag folding
Folding the flag carefully keeps it neat, protected and ready for its next respectful display.
Lay it flat
Place the flag flat with the Union Jack in the bottom-left corner.
Fold lengthwise
Fold the flag lengthwise twice, keeping edges aligned and the fabric smooth.
Bring ends together
Bring both ends together carefully without letting the flag touch the ground.
Concertina fold
Fold accordion-style until the flag is compact and easy to handle.
Secure it
Wrap the rope around the folded flag to keep it neat and secure.
Store respectfully
Keep it dry, clean and protected until it is ready to be flown again.
Lifespan
How long should a flag last?
A quality flag can last around 6 to 12 months with proper care, but real-world conditions make a big difference.
Coastal or exposed areas
Flags in strong sun, salt air or constant wind may wear faster and may need replacing closer to 3 months.
Rotating two flags
Rotating between two flags can help each one recover between use and may extend overall lifespan.
Left out 24/7
A flag left outdoors day and night in harsh conditions can fade or fray quickly, sometimes within weeks.
Flag etiquette
Honour the national symbol
Caring for the flag physically is only part of the responsibility. Proper protocol helps show respect for Australia’s national identity.
When to fly
Traditionally, the flag is flown from sunrise to sunset. If flown at night, it should be properly illuminated.
Raise and lower respectfully
Raise the flag briskly and lower it ceremoniously. Take it down during inclement weather where practical.
Display it correctly
The Union Jack should appear in the top left from the observer’s point of view when displayed on a wall.
Keep it clear of the ground
The flag should fly freely and should never touch the ground, trail behind a vehicle or lie limp.
Do not use it as decoration
A flag should not be used as a tablecloth, curtain, platform cover or decoration beneath waist height.
Retire damaged flags
Flying a severely faded, torn or damaged flag is considered disrespectful. Replace it when it is no longer suitable for display.
Shop & support
Your flag is more than fabric — it is a living symbol of Australia’s past, present and future.
Need a replacement, a second flag for rotation, or a formal display setup for a school, council, ceremony or public event? Explore Evan Evans flag ranges below.
Need help choosing the right flag or display setup?
Talk to Evan Evans for help with Australian flags, official flag displays, flagpoles, presentation poles, replacement flags and council or school flag requirements.
Australian Flag Care & Etiquette FAQs
Can I fly the Australian flag at night?
Yes, but only if it is properly illuminated. The flag should be clearly visible and respectfully displayed after dark.
How often should I wash my Australian flag?
Clean your flag when it becomes noticeably dirty or stained. Use cold water and mild detergent. Avoid bleach and machine drying.
What is the correct way to fold the Australian flag?
Lay the flag flat, fold it lengthwise twice, bring the ends together, then concertina fold. Secure it with the rope and never let it touch the ground.
Can I use the Australian flag as decoration on a table or stage?
No. The flag should not be used as a table cover, curtain or decoration beneath waist height. Use a plain cloth or purpose-made display material instead.
When should I take the flag down?
Traditionally, the flag is flown from sunrise to sunset. Remove it during bad weather where practical to extend its lifespan.
Can I fly the Australian flag on any day of the year?
Yes, the Australian flag can be flown on any day. It is especially encouraged on national days such as Australia Day, ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day.
Is it illegal to fly a damaged Australian flag?
While it is not illegal, flying a severely torn or faded flag is considered disrespectful. It is best to retire damaged flags and replace them promptly. You can browse replacement options in our Australian Flags collection.
Can I fly the Australian flag alongside other flags?
Yes. When flown with other national flags, the Australian flag should take precedence. If flown with state, company, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander flags, specific arrangements may apply. Refer to the official flag protocol guidelines.
What size flag should I use for my flagpole?
A common guide is that the flag’s length should be around one-quarter to one-third the height of the flagpole. If you are unsure, contact Evan Evans and we can help you choose a suitable flag size.
Can I hang the Australian flag indoors or on a wall?
Yes. When hanging the flag indoors, the Union Jack should be in the upper left as seen by the observer. The flag may be displayed vertically or horizontally if hung respectfully.
Can I recycle my old Australian flag at Evan Evans?
Yes. Evan Evans accepts used flags and fabric banners through our recycling program. Please contact us to arrange drop-off or collection, or learn more on our sustainability page.
