A local council in New South Wales has been praised for giving away free flags for households to display on Australia Day in order to help restore national pride.
Mayor Philip Penfold of Maitland Council in the Hunter region said the initiative, now in its second year, was intended to allow residents to show their love for Australia and their flag on January 26, and that the response from the community had been massive.
Mr Penfold said submissions would open this month, allowing residents to request a flag suitable to be flown on an existing flagpole, or a second option comprised of a flag, bracket and pole kit that can be installed on an exterior wall.
He also confirmed the flags were Australian-made, and told 2GB the council wanted residents “to know they can be proud of their flag, of their country, and we’re doing our little bit to promote that”.
“I’m surprised at the attention it gets to be honest, I wonder why we’re a country now where it’s controversial to promote flying your own flag,” he said.
“We want to tell the people of Maitland, tell the people of the region, that it’s okay to be proud of your flag, and it represents no more than your pride in your country.
“It’s a small token gesture, but it means a lot to a lot of people.”
Mr Penfold said the initiative had a budget of up to $10,000, saying it was “unfortunate” supply would not be able to meet demand.
The flag plan generated an overwhelmingly positive online, with many residents saying they would apply and congratulating the council on the initiative.
“Yes please, I’d be proud to hoist one,” said one local.
“This is what we need to see more of from our ‘elected members’,” said another. “I will have one of each to hang on our van that week.”
“All councils should partake in this,” said a third.
Header image: Left, a flagpole in Maitland. Right, one of the free flag options (Maitland Council).
