images provided by: Kalangadoo Remembers Group
Anzac Day is a day of deep remembrance for both Australia and New Zealand. ANZAC stands for the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, the flag protocol often involves multiple flags and ensigns. Following these rules ensures respect is shown to all military personnel who served in the Gallipoli campaign and beyond.
Anzac Day marks the 1915 landing at Gallipoli and honours the spirit of mateship. These flag rules help our community show collective respect for that sacrifice on 25 April. You should explore what Anzac Day commemorates to understand the deep history and values behind these important national traditions.
Quick Protocol Reference for Multiple Flags
| Flag Type | Order of Priority | Placement (Observer's View) |
| Australian National Flag | 1st Priority | Far Left |
| New Zealand / Allied Flags | 2nd Priority | Center / To the Right of ANF |
| State & Territory Flags | 3rd Priority | Right of National Flags |
Traditional flags and ensigns for Anzac Day commemoration
While the Australian flag is the primary symbol, it is highly traditional to fly the New Zealand National Flag. You may also fly the Union Jack or the flags of other nations that were allied during the First World War. For a commemorative service, you might also include the Australian Aboriginal Flag and the Torres Strait Islander Flag.
If you participate in an event, you must ensure all flags and ensigns are of the same size. No nation should have its flag flying higher than another on separate poles. This equality represents the mateship and shared military history between Australians and our allies.
Standard timing for half-mast and noon raising procedures
In accordance with flag protocol, all flags and ensigns at a flag station must follow the same timing. You must fly them at half-mast from dawn until noon on 25 April. At noon, every flag should be raised to the peak of the flag mast for the remainder of the day.
When you lower the flags to the half-mast position, you must first raise them to the mast peak. Then, you ceremoniously lower them to the one-third distance mark. If you are flying flags of other nations, it is respectful to seek permission from their diplomatic representatives before moving their flag to the half-mast position.
Official order of precedence for multiple flag displays
The Australian National Flag should be flown in the position of highest honour. After the national flags, you should fly state flags followed by military ensigns. These include the Australian Defence Force Ensign, the White Ensign (Navy), and the RAAF Ensign.
During the Dawn Service, the Australian flag is hoisted first and lowered last. If your organisation has multiple poles, you should raise them simultaneously if possible. This ensures the significance of the event is maintained for all serving members and the public.
Flag movements for the Last Post and silence
The Last Post bugle call signals the final rest of the fallen and the end of their military duty. During this call and the following period of silence, the Australian National Flag must remain at half-mast. This position allows every veteran and guest to remember the sacrifice made by the Anzacs in silence. Staying at half-mast during these moments maintains the solemn protocol of the commemorative service.
The flag should be raised to the peak of the flag mast during the playing of Reveille or The Rouse. Reveille is a longer bugle call used strictly for a dawn service to symbolise the resurrection of the fallen soldier's spirit. For any service held later in the day, you must play the shorter call known as The Rouse. Hoisting the flag to the mast head during these notes shows that the nation continues to honour the living and the enduring Anzac legacy.
To ensure the flag is correctly positioned during the silence, you must use the one-third rule. A flag is at half-mast when its top is one-third of the distance down from the peak. This specific measurement ensures the Australian flag is recognisably in a state of mourning and hasn't simply slipped. Following this precise protocol ensures your Anzac Day event remains respectful and factually accurate for all Australians.
Anzac Day Flag Flying Questions
Do I need permission to fly the New Zealand flag?
No, it is encouraged for Anzac Day. However, you should follow the protocol of flying it on a separate pole.
What is the "Catafalque Party" role?
This is a military guard that stands at the four corners of a memorial. They observe the silence while the flag is at half-mast.
Should I wear medals if I am the flag marshal?
Yes. If you are a veteran, wear them on the left. If you are representing a family member, wear them on the right.
