RESTRICTIONS ON IMPORTING GOODS
BEARING AN IMAGE OF THE
AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL FLAG
The importation of goods which bear an image or representation
of the Australian national flag is restricted under the Customs
(Prohibited Imports) Regulations 1956.
Where to apply
WHAT GOODS ARE RESTRICTED
Commonwealth Flag Officer
Honours, Symbols and Territories Branch
Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
PO Box 6500 CANBERRA ACT 2600
It is prohibited to import any items which bear an image of the
Australian national flag without prior written approval.
These goods can include souvenirs e.g. playing cards, wallets,
toys, pens, ceramic ware and glassware, articles of clothing and
textile goods.
There are also restrictions on goods bearing an image of the
Commonwealth Coat of Arms or seal and goods bearing an
image of the flag, arms or seal of an Australian state or territory.
BACKGROUND TO RESTRICTION
The Regulation is a quality control measure that operates to
ensure that representations of the Australian national flag are
consistent with the specifications of the flag in the Flags Act
1953.
OBTAINING DESIGN APPROVAL
If you are seeking to import goods bearing an image of the
Australian national flag, there is a simple process to complete. It
is recommended that you commence arrangements at least two
weeks prior to arrival of the consignment.
Prior to import, you need to obtain approval of the design of the
flag on the goods. Approval must be obtained in writing from the
Honours, Symbols and Territories Branch of the Department of
the Prime Minister and Cabinet (PM&C).
These requirements are published on the PM&C website at
http://www.itsanhonour.gov.au
Requests for approval of the design of the flag/s should be
addressed to:
Or email: [email protected]
WHEN THE GOODS ARE IMPORTED
If asked by Customs and Border Protection, the importer of the
goods must produce the written approval of the design from PM&C.
LABELLING REQUIREMENTS
The importation of goods which bear a false trade description is
prohibited. A false trade description can be any labelling that is
incorrect or misleading. The application of the Australian Flag to
products or their packaging may be seen as a false trade
description if the true country of manufacture is not also prominently
displayed.
MORE INFORMATION
For more information on the requirements to import goods bearing
an image of national or state or territory flags or symbols, please
contact [email protected]
For information on any Customs matters, contact the Customs
Information and Support Centre on 1300 363 263 or email
[email protected] or browse the website
www.customs.gov.au
What information to provide
When seeking design approval, applicants should provide:
(a) a full description of the goods, (b) quantities, (c) name and
postal address of the importer, (d) an image of the goods in
colour.
October 2012