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AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL FLAG DAY 3 SEPTEMBER 2006
The Australian flag belongs to all Australians, whether they are descendants of our first
inhabitants or just became citizens last week. That is why the Federal Government
provides flags poles for our schools and encourages all Australians to fly our flag
wherever they can.
My two favourite official occasions are presenting Australians with the certificates of
citizenship and presenting schools with Australian flags. Both occasions remind us of the
need to commit ourselves to those great Australian values which define our nationhood;
democracy, the rule of law, a fair go and respect for others.
Our flag, like our constitution, was chosen by the people. It is truly a symbol of a great
democracy.
We may not fly our flag as often as the Americans fly theirs, but which Australian heart
does not beat with a quiet patriotic pride when we see that big blue banner snapping in a
brisk nor’easter or waving languidly in a gentle summer breeze?
So on Australian National Flag Day, lets fly our flag with pride wherever and whenever
we can. The best way we can show our flag belongs to all Australians is for all
Australians to see it flown.
Advance Australia!
Yours sincerely,
 Hon Malcolm Turnbull MP
Federal Member for Wentworth |
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