Federation-era flag or bunting

This flag was most likely produced as street decoration celebrating the opening of the first Federal Parliament in Melbourne by the Duke of Cornwall and York (later King George V) on 9 May 1901. It incorporates elements from the Australian Federation League's original Federation flag design from 1890, including the Southern Cross motif, representing the six Australian states, and the Union Jack, showing Australia's ties to the United Kingdom. Australia's loyalty to empire is also shown through the royal portrait of the Duke. This flag lends insight into the origins of today's Australian flag.