The Australian flag has always been a reminder to me of the pride and privilege I feel that I am Australian, and this year I feel more grateful than ever.

September 3 is National Flag Day, marking the first time the Australian flag was flown, in 1901 at the Royal Exhibition Park in Melbourne.

This year, it’s a reminder that while we are all experiencing a challenging time through the COVID-19 pandemic, we are standing strong together as a nation.

Our flag is the ultimate symbol of Australia and its values, our mateship, fairness, hard work, optimism and humour.
Through peaceful times and in war, the flag has represented these characteristics and united us all.

When we look on the flag today, it’s a reminder that we must cherish these values, and continue to look out for each other.

I encourage all Australians to celebrate with pride the 119th anniversary of the Australian National Flag.

For more information and resources for Australian National Flag Day, visit the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet’s website: www.pmc.gov.au/flag

LLEW O’BRIEN 
Federal Member for Wide Bay
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives

WELCOME TO WIDE BAY

In the spirit of Australia, I acknowledge all citizens who contribute to making our nation the greatest on earth.

I acknowledge our defence force personnel, past, present, and emerging, for their service to our nation, and particularly those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of Australia.

I also acknowledge the Australian taxpayers who, through their hard work, pay for the infrastructure, health, education, and emergency services that keep our proud nation healthy, safe, and prosperous.