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Aboriginal Flag to Permanently Replace NSW Flag on Sydney Harbour Bridge
The NSW government has backflipped on its plan to spend $25 million on an additional flag pole on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Instead, the Aboriginal flag will take the spot of the New South Wales flag, which will be relocated to a new home on Macquarie Street. The money to erect a third flagpole was committed to this year’s budget as a critical gesture toward reconciliation, however, Premier Dominic Perrottet now believes the finances could be better served elsewhere.
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Image: Getty
Speaking in June, Perrorttet said, “Our Indigenous history should be celebrated and acknowledged so young Australians understand the rich and enduring culture that we have here with our past.” He added, “Installing the Aboriginal flag permanently on the Sydney Harbour Bridge will do just that and is a continuation of the healing process as part of the broader move towards reconciliation. We are making significant investments, adopting new approaches and taking practical steps to close the gap and improve outcomes for Aboriginal people across NSW.”
Following intense criticism over the project’s price, the NSW premier had a change of tune over the weekend. Perrottet told the Sydney Morning Herald he would repurpose the funds on closing the gap initiatives. “This is a practical and pragmatic solution which makes sense and ensures that we celebrate our nation’s ancient heritage alongside its modern history in a continuing story, which we can all be part of and celebrate together as one,” he said.
Image: Cheree Toka/GoFundMe
Raised on Australia’s most iconic bridge, the current flagpoles sit 20 metres high, roughly equivalent to a six-storey building. The flags require a special attachment to withstand all climate conditions to ensure stability and durability.
In addition to the new flag funds, the NSW Government also announced an AUD$401 million investment over four years that will benefit Closing the Gap and improve outcomes for Aboriginal people. Additionally, the budget shows AU$100 million in spending to increase safety for women and young girls, including upgrades to CCTV and lighting in public areas.
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Sam Mangioni
Sam Mangioni is an experienced Staff Writer with an extensive background in digital content production and news. Prior to working for Man of Many, Sam spent three years at Southern Cross Austereo where he served as a Content Producer and News Reporter for the flagship Triple M Breakfast Program. The Sydney-based reporter completed a Bachelor of Commerce from Macquarie University Majoring in Marketing in 2014. A specialist in sport, lifestyle and gear coverage, Sam's work has also featured in Fight News Australia.
