'Long overdue': Corangamite Shire Council to install third flag pole to fly Aboriginal flag 365 days a year

It currently flies two flags - the Australian flag and council flag - outside the Corangamite Shire Civic Centre and only flies the Aboriginal Flag during NAIDOC week and National Reconciliation Week.

It made a change to the policy at its June 24 meeting, upon realising other councils in the region fly the Aboriginal flag every day of the year.

Mayor Cr Neil Trotter said the issue was raised by one of the youngest residents in the municipality.

"The decision is a response to a letter I received from one of our junior residents asking why we were not flying the Aboriginal Flag all year," he said.

"I thank her for that question, which came to council in April."

Cr Helen Durant described the change as one "long overdue".

"This is a long overdue change and one I welcome," she said.

"By doing so we recognise the Aboriginal history and culture of our shire, which is one that we should celebrate and be proud of.

"Flying the flag is one way we can acknowledge the fact that Aboriginal people have been on this land for over 60,000 years and are one of the oldest continuing cultures in the world."

The council will spend $1000 installing a third flag pole.

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