Q:
What do the stars on the Australian flag mean?
A:
Quick Answer
On the Australian flag, the cluster of five stars comprises the constellation of the Southern Cross, which is Australia's geographical location within the Southern Hemisphere. The Commonwealth Star represents the Federation of States as six points and their unity as the seventh point. Aside from the stars, the flag also contains the British Union Jack and a blue field, which symbolizes the flag's historical origins.
Continue Reading
Credit:
Lachlan Fearnley
CC-BY-3.0
Full Answer
In 1901, entries from a competition in Melbourne yielded the flag's original design, with a Commonwealth Star featuring six points. This flag was first flown in Melbourne on September 3, 1901. Three crosses are on the flag, consisting of St. George, St. Andrew and St. Patrick.
Learn more about AustraliaRelated Questions
-
Q:
What is Australia's national sport?
A: Australia has several national sports including football, rugby and soccer. This group of sports is colloquially known as "footy" sports. Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What is the national animal of Australia?
A: Australia has not adopted an official national animal, but has designated the red kangaroo and the emu as Australia's "native animals." These two species a... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What are some of the interesting facts about Australia?
A: Australia is the largest island in the world. It is also the smallest continent in the world, covering just under 3 million square miles and supporting a p... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What is the average temperature in Australia?
A: Australia's average temperature, based on data from 1961-1990, is 71.24 degrees Fahrenheit; in 2013, the country experienced one of the warmest years on re... Full Answer >Filed Under:
