As a Flag Marshall under the National Symbols Program administered by the Federal Government I receive advices regarding the protocols and flying of the National Flag including occasions when it should be flown at half-mast.
I’m sure that many residents would be devastated at this morning’s news of the loss of Malaysian Airlines Flight MH017 which claimed 298 lives including 27 Australians citizens. For that reason, I’m posting the following advice which is primarily targeted at government buildings, establishments and affiliated agencies but which is also applicable to any other organisations and individuals as deemed appropriate.
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URGENT
To: All Flag Marshals: Action Australia-wide plus overseas posts
MALAYSIA AIRLINES FLIGHT MH-17
Australian National Flag to fly at half-mast
Saturday 19 July 2014
As a mark of respect and mourning for the many victims, including Australians, of the Malaysia Airlines tragedy, the Australian National Flag should be flown at half-mast all day on Saturday 19 July 2014. This advice applies to buildings and establishments occupied by Australian Government departments and affiliated agencies. Other organisations are welcome to participate.
In accordance with flag protocol, all flags and ensigns at each flag station should be flown at half-mast. However, should it be the custom to fly the flags of other nations at your flag station, it would be appropriate to seek permission from the diplomatic representatives of that nation to half-mast their flag.
The financial and staffing implications arising from weekend flag marshal duties are the responsibility of each organisation.
Further information on the protocols for half-masting the Australian National Flag is at http://www.itsanhonour.gov.au/symbols/flag.cfm.
Your assistance is appreciated.
Commonwealth Flag Officer
18 July 2014