Week 3 - Australian Flag Redesign

Recognised Australian flag since 1908

What is 'wrong' with the current design? What works with the current design?

• The flag is connected strongly to Great Britain through the use of the Union Jack.
• Other countries use similar designs and similar colour schemes to the current Australian flag, therefore it isn't necessarily individual.
• The colours shown don't necessarily reflect our culture or are symbolic for anything.
• The seven stars refer the Southern Cross, however they could also refer to the seven states of the country.
• Currently, the flag in no way reflects on Aboriginal citizens or their cultures.
• The current flag has been in place for over 100 years, so what is the point of changing it now?

Possible constraints in terms of audience (social and ethical issues, attitudes of Australian's and foreigners), medium (various formats flags are displayed), purpose (what does a flag do?).

• The flag is already highly recognisable worldwide, therefore a change would definately confuse others around the globe.
• Australian citizens have a strong history with the flag, particularly older generations such as war veterans who fought for the country under the current Australian flag.
• Purpose: the flag is easily identifiable.
• If the flag is currently successful and works, what's the point in fixing it.
• Monetry: production costs for the printing and creating of new flags and replacing the old versions would be extreme.

Flag designs for other countries.

Flag of Kiribati

Flag of Macedonia

Flag of Nepal