NSW Protocol

Protocol fosters positive relationships and outcomes. NSW Protocol provides expert advice and manages a range of traditional protocol functions within NSW.

Anzac Day Martin Place Sydney

NSW Protocol also plans and delivers:

  • visit programs for international guests of the Commonwealth or NSW governments
  • official hospitality events hosted by the Premier
  • logistical arrangements for official overseas travel by the Premier
  • various state occasions and ceremonies including state funerals/memorials.

Protocol liaises with the consular and diplomatic corps on engagement with the premier and state ministers. They also coordinate arrangements for passports and visas for the premier, ministers and accompanying officers undertaking official overseas travel.

Protocol advises on all aspects of protocol relating to ceremony, table of precedence, forms of address, the NSW state flag, Coat of Arms and other official emblems of the state. 

Find protocol information

State flag

The NSW state flag has been in use since 1876. It includes the Union Jack and the NSW badge.

NSW Coat of Arms

With the exception of court and tribunal, NSW agencies cannot use the Coat of Arms without Ministerial approval.

State emblems

NSW has its own state flower, animal, bird, fish and gemstone.

Forms of address

It is important to have an understanding on the correct forms of address when writing to, referring to or meeting Vice Regal persons, members of parliament, government, diplomatic/consular corps and religious leaders.

State Services

A State Service (funeral or memorial) represents a considerable honour accorded by the NSW Government in recognition of an individual’s achievement and contribution during their lifetime.

Table of Precedence for NSW

The NSW Table of Precedence presents an order of the formal and ceremonial status for members of parliament, government and the judiciary. 

Table of Precedence for the Commonwealth

The Commonwealth Table of Precedence presents an order of the formal and ceremonial status for members of parliament, government and the judiciary. 

His Majesty's Crown

King Charles III chose the Tudor Crown for inclusion in His Majesty’s cypher following his ascent to the throne in 2022. 

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