The ''Blue Ensign'' flag was introduced in 1901 upon the establishment of the Commonwealth of Australia. From 4 June 1903 ships registered in Australiia had to fly the Australian Red Ensign and on 5 December 1938 it was made compulsory for all ships and boats owned by British residents in Australia and its territories. The Red Ensign was also the only flag private citizens could fly on land, until 1941, when those restrictions were abolished and the Australian Blue Ensign became the national flag for all.