A major debate has erupted within the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council over whether the Australian national flag should always be featured in official materials.
Despite a council vote in June to ensure the flag holds the “highest position of honour”, the updated draft policy allows the communications department to override this decision based on “cultural safety”.
The issue arose after a flyer for local kindergartens omitted the Australian flag in favor of Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Pride flags. Outraged ratepayers voiced concern that the national identity was being sidelined.
The council swiftly voted to mandate the Australian flag’s inclusion in all printed and digital materials. However, a report to be tabled on July 22 recommends that for targeted audiences – including Aboriginal, Intersex and culturally diverse groups – it may be more “respectful” to exclude the national flag.
The final say would rest with communications manager Randal Mathieson, sparking fears of bureaucratic overreach.
Councillor Bruce Ranken, who initially pushed for the national flag’s primacy, said he would seek clarification ahead of the meeting. Mayor Anthony Marsh reinforced that the council’s intention was to clearly include the Australian flag.
This internal conflict highlights broader national debates around identity, inclusion, and symbolism in multicultural Australia.
