Country Information
Sovereign State | No (Australian External Territory) |
Country Codes | CX, CXR, 162 |
Official Name | Territory of Christmas Island |
Continent | Asia (Geographically), Oceania (Politically) |
Capital | Flying Fish Cove |
Government Type | Non-self-governing external territory of Australia |
Currency | Australian Dollar (AUD) |
Calling Code | +61 |
Member Of | Part of Australia; participates in international affairs through Australia |
Population | Approx. 2,000 (as of 2023) |
Total Area | 135 square kilometers |
Highest Point | Murray Hill (361 meters or 1,184 feet) |
Lowest Point | Indian Ocean (0 meters or 0 feet) |
GDP Per Capita | N/A |
Life Expectancy | N/A |
Internet TLD | .cx |
National Anthem
As a territory of Australia, Christmas Island does not have its own national anthem. It uses “Advance Australia Fair,” the national anthem of Australia.
Flags of Neighboring Countries
![Australia Flag](https://theflags.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Australia-Flag-1024x512.png)
![Indonesia Flag](https://theflags.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/id.png)
History of the Christmas Island Flag
The flag of Christmas Island was unofficially adopted in 1986 and was designed by Tony Couch of Sydney, a resident of the island for two decades. The flag is not officially recognized by the Australian government but is used locally on Christmas Island.
The flag features a green and blue background, divided diagonally, which represents the island’s rich flora and surrounding ocean. The Southern Cross constellation appears on the blue portion, taken from the Australian flag, symbolizing Christmas Island’s connection to Australia. In the canton, a golden bosun bird, which is native to the island, is depicted in flight.
The design of the flag was chosen through a competition held among the island’s residents. The winning design, chosen from several submissions, was meant to encapsulate the unique characteristics and nature of Christmas Island. The bosun bird, in particular, is a significant symbol for the island, representing its wildlife and natural beauty.
The Christmas Island flag is a symbol of the island’s identity and community. While it is not officially recognized as a national flag, it is a source of pride for the island’s residents and is used in local celebrations, ceremonies, and events. The flag represents the distinct heritage of Christmas Island and its relationship with Australia, while also celebrating the unique natural environment of this remote territory.