Historical information

The Torres Strait Islander Flag is a symbol of unity, identity, and cultural strength for Torres Strait Islander peoples. It represents their deep connection to land, sea, sky, and community, and has been an official Flag of Australia since 1995.

The colour green on the flag (top & bottom) represents the land of the Torres Strait Islands and surrounding regions, blue (centre) represents the sea, central to Torres Strait life, culture, and navigation, and the black lines represent the Torres Strait Islander people themselves.

The central symbols, the white Dhari (headdress) is a powerful emblem of Torres Strait Islander culture, ceremony, and identity and the white five‑pointed star symbolises navigation, peace, and the five major island groups of the Torres Strait.

Significance

The flag was designed in 1992 and first presented at the Torres Strait Cultural Festival on 29 May 1992. It was recognised by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission shortly after. It was officially proclaimed a Flag of Australia on 14 July 1995 under the Flags Act 1953.

Physical description

Torres Strait Islander Flag. This flag is suitable to be flown on a flagpole.

Inscriptions & markings

Manufacturer's Tag: Manufactured in Australia by Carroll & Richardson