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The badge of the State of Queensland evolved as a result of a need for a seal or badge to be included in the design of the State flag.
Adopted as part of the flag on 29 November 1876, the badge is officially described as "On a Roundel Argent a Maltese Cross Azure surmounted with a Royal Crown".
It is not known precisely why this device was chosen as a suitable badge. However, it is interesting to note that a Maltese cross figures as the final stop on the legend band around the circumference of the Great Seal Deputed of Queensland (1859). The Royal Crown also appears on this seal.
In 1893, the badge was incorporated in the Queensland Coat of Arms.
The Royal Crown has been altered slightly since the badge was first adopted in Queen Victoria's reign as succeeding sovereigns have favoured different heraldic interpretations of the Crown.
It was last altered in 1963, after Queen Elizabeth II decided on the rendering of the Crown to be used during her reign.
Like the Coat of Arms, the badge is not available for commercial use.
Related links
Emblems of Queensland Act 2005