PRESS RELEASE: Aboriginal Flag License

MEDIA RELEASE
25 JANUARY 2022
Carroll & Richardson Flagworld
For immediate release
Today the Commonwealth Government announced that they had secured the copyright to the design of Australian Aboriginal Flag from Mr Harold Thomas, and that the flag was now freely available for public use.
In the Commonwealth’s announcement, they reiterated that Carroll & Richardson Flagworld will remain the exclusive licensed manufacturer and provider of Aboriginal Flags and bunting. The announcement of the acquisition of copyright, or its interpretation by the press, could result in a misinterpretation of the rights of Flagworld, and of those of the public.
Flagworld holds an exclusive license to reproduce or authorise the reproduction of the design of the Aboriginal Flag on flags, pennants, banners and bunting, and to manufacture, promote, advertise, distribute and sell those products throughout the world. This license remains with Carroll & Richardson Flagworld, as had been the case when Mr Thomas owned the copyright. This license will remain in force for a period of 70 years after the passing of Mr Thomas. Royalties arising from the license will now be paid to the Commonwealth.
Carroll & Richardson Flagword have been the exclusive manufacturer for over 20 years and have ensured the integrity and quality of the product meets the standards of what is expected of a national flag.
Managing Director of Carroll & Richardson Flagworld, Mr Wayne Gregory said in a statement today “In our role as exclusive licensee, Carroll & Richardson Flagworld is the only company in the world permitted to manufacture and produce any flags, pennants, banners and bunting using the design of the Aboriginal Flag and we will continue to defend our license and the copyright against fraudulent manufacture and production. Any company found to be exploiting the copyright and producing flags, pennants, banners and bunting for commercial purposes without our written consent will be pursued.”
Mr Gregory also stated that Carroll & Richardson Flagworld was not a party to the agreement(s) reached with Mr Thomas and other parties involved in today’s announcement.
Media Inquiries:
Wayne Gregory, Managing Director
M 0419587375