It is Government policy to provide a New South Wales State Flag, free of charge, to scout groups, guide districts, recognised youth associations, and State Headquarters of selected non-profit, charitable and community groups which have the facilities to permit the proper flying or display of the flag on a regular basis.

If Members consider that a request from a community group for a State Flag qualifies within the terms set out below, then a recommendation should be made in writing to the Protocol Division, Premier's Department. Protocol Division will arrange for the supply of a flag to the Member for personal presentation to the group.

Those community groups which are eligible for a State Flag include:

Scouting Groups

One flag only will be available to each scouting group.

Girl Guide Districts

One flag only will be provided to each girl guide district.

Recognised Youth Organisation

A recognised youth organisation is one which:-

confines its membership predominantly to persons below the age of 21; is of long standing or appears to have good prospects of stability; is constituted under the guidance of an adult management; has a recognised meeting place, and has a wide range of youth activities.

Organisations which are confined to one activity (eg. a football club) do not qualify for a flag.

Other Organisations

A flag will be supplied to the State Headquarters only of selected non-profit, charitable and community organisations, as determined by the Protocol Division.

Replacement of Old or Missing Flags

In the event that a flag is no longer suitable for use or is missing, Members may make a recommendation to the Protocol Division for replacement of the flag. It is generally expected, however, that each flag will remain serviceable for a period of seven years.

(NB: Free State Flags are also available to schools and students/teachers participating in overseas exchange programmes. Members wishing to obtain flags on their behalf should submit their requests directly to the Department of School Education).

Bob Carr
Premier