Australian Red Ensign

The Australian Red Ensign is the official flag to be flown at sea by Australian registered merchant ships. The Australian Red Ensign has three elements, similar to the Australian National Flag, on a red background. The Union Jack in the upper left corner (or canton), the white Commonwealth Star underneath it and the Southern Cross on the fly (or right hand side) of the flag in white. 

 When the Commonwealth Government announced a competition to design a flag for Australia in 1901, entrants were asked to send a design for two flags – one for official and naval purposes and the other for merchant ships. This resulted in a Blue Ensign and a Red Ensign. There was considerable confusion in the first half of the 20th century over the appropriate use of the Red Ensign as opposed to the Blue Ensign. This was clarified with the passage of the Flags Act 1953 which proclaimed the Blue Ensign as the Australian National Flag. The Australian Red Ensign became the official flag to be flown at sea by Australian registered merchant ships.

Fully Sewn (Poly Woven / Bunting)

Made from premium poly woven fabric, also known as woven bunting. These flags are fully appliquéd using layered fabrics and custom stitching to create the design. This traditional method of flag making produces a flag that is long-lasting, highly durable, and the most elegant option — a true keepsake item.

Printed – Poly Woven

Printed on a poly woven fabric similar to our fully sewn flags, but with a slightly lighter denier to allow the ink to penetrate through the fabric. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, this is the most durable and traditional printed option. Available as either screen printed or digitally printed.

Digitally Printed on Poly Knitted Fabric

Digitally printed on either a lightweight satin or poly knitted fabric. When we refer to poly knitted fabric, this option is digitally printed and our most cost-effective choice and have the fastest turnaround for custom-made flags.

It is ideal where budget are key considerations, however it is not recommended for long-term outdoor use.

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All flags are made in-house in our Sydney workroom and are finished with double-stitched hems, UV-stable header tape, and UV-stable recycled thread for long-lasting performance.

Our flags are available in the following standard finishes:

• Fully Sewn
  Traditional fully sewn construction, finished with metal sister clips for durability and strength.
  
• Printed
  High-quality printed flag, finished with nylon sister clips for a lightweight and practical option.
  
• Red Ensign
  Finished with a loop and tail as standard.

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All flags, unless specified otherwise, are finished with sister clips as standard.

Alternative finishes are available, including pole sleeves, loop and tail, and other custom options.

If you require a different finish, please note your preference in the notes section at checkout.

If you’re unsure which finish is best for your needs, feel free to contact us — we’re happy to help.

Read more about finishes here.

How long will my flag last?

The life of a flag is dependent on a variety of factors such as wind, sun and rain. For tips on how to extend the life of your flag, read more here.

What can I do when my flag starts to wear?

We offer repairs on flags with early signs of wear and offer a recycling program for flags that have passed their fly life - read more here.

What is the standard size for a flag?

The most common flag size, for a standard outdoor residential flag pole is 2 yard (1832mm x 915mm).

What material will my flag be made from?

The most common flag material we use is woven polyester bunting, which is made specifically for flag making, but we offer a variety of materials to meet your needs, read more here.

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If there is a size that isn't listed please reach out to us. 

After ordering online, you will receive an email confirmation containing your order details (if you have provided your email address). We will normally confirm receipt of your order within a few minutes of ordering.

We will attempt to send your goods via either Australia Post or TNT, within 2-3 working days; however if goods are unavailable delivery will take a little longer. If you wish to query a delivery please contact us at office@harrywestflags.com.au