Australian flags are flying at half-mast on the Sydney Harbour Bridge today in respect of the passing of Vanuatu President Baldwin Lonsdale.
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull had requested the Australian National Flag be flown at half-mast all day today in respect of the passing of the President of Vanuatu.
In a statement the Prime Minister said in accordance with protocol, the Australian national flag should be flown at half-mast all day on Wednesday 21 June 2017 Australia wide from all buildings and establishments occupied by Australian Government departments and affiliated agencies. Other organisations were welcome to participate.
Lonsdale, 67, died at Vila Central Hospital last Saturday.
The Daily Telegraph reports social media has been abuzz with questions about why the Australian flags are flying at half-mast on the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Governor General Sir Peter Cosgrove travelled to Port Vila to represent Australia at the state funeral today.
The late President Lonsdale will be laid to rest on his home island of Mota Lava in the Torba Province.