Celebrating heritage through craftsmanship

On 14 July 1995, the Australian Government formally recognised the Australian Aboriginal Flag as an official flag of the nation under section 5 of the Flags Act 1953. This flag stands as a powerful symbol of cultural identity, resilience, and unity for Aboriginal Australians.

Originally designed by Harold Thomas, a Luritja artist from the Northern Territory, the flag was first raised on 9 July 1971 in Adelaide. Its design is rich in symbolism: black represents the Aboriginal people, red signifies the earth and the ochre used in ceremonies, and the yellow circle at the centre represents the sun, the source of life. The flag gained national prominence during the 1972 Aboriginal Tent Embassy protests in Canberra and has since become a widely recognised emblem of Aboriginal pride and heritage.

In a significant development on 25 January 2022, the copyright of the Aboriginal Flag was transferred from Mr Thomas to the Commonwealth of Australia, ensuring its free and unrestricted use by all Australians.

At CSI Textiles, we are proud to contribute to the legacy of this important national symbol. Across 11 locations, our operations engage over 435 inmates in the design and manufacture of high-quality Australian-made products, including the Australian Aboriginal Flag. Each flag is produced in strict accordance with Australian Government specifications, ensuring authenticity and excellence.

Our textiles program is designed not only to deliver premium products but also to provide meaningful rehabilitation opportunities. Participants gain nationally recognised qualifications in Apparel, Fashion, and Textiles, equipping them with valuable, transferable skills for future employment across a range of industries.

The Australian Aboriginal Flag is more than a product, it is a representation of identity, craftsmanship, and community. At CSI Textiles, we are honoured to support its continued presence in Australian life through quality, purpose-driven work.