The flag dates from 1876, with minor variations, and the badge was designed by William Hemmant, the Colonial Secretary and Treasurer of Queensland in 1876.

[2] The flag was described as being sky blue with the St George's Cross and union in the corner.

[1][5] As the previous design was found to be unworkable, a new design was submitted to the Admiralty for approval:[1][6] Referring to the Circular Despatch of the Secretary of State for the Colonies, dated 23 August last, upon the subject of distinctive badges proposed for the Flags of several Colonies, I have the honour to advise Your Excellency that the difficulty of producing upon bunting a fair representation of the head or bust of Her Majesty has proved so great, and the effect, when produced, so unsatisfactory, as to render it necessary to abandon the idea of using that device for the Queensland Ensign, and I beg therefore to recommend that the accompanying design, within a wreath of laurel, be adopted for the Flags of the Colony in lieu of that formerly advised.The Maltese Cross impaled with the Crown was chosen out of four proposed designs to replace Victoria's head.

[8] However, it is unknown whether this tradition will continue into the future, as despite King Charles III choice to use the Tudor Crown on his royal cypher, the Queensland government stated on 4 May 2023, that they have no plans to update the State Emblem or flag.

[9] The Queensland Government offers free state flags to eligible organisations including: