The 'people' referred to are not separate.
They have no separate control.
The only control they do have is that given by law.
As is the case for all of us.
There is no need for separate flags or separate approval of any kind.
And especially, 'welcome to country' is absurd and out of place.
If anything, it should be the other way round.
I note Mr Howard was reported as expressing the latter view.
And I am sure many did so before him.
But we do not need to announce something which is obvious to all.
We need to get on with living, which includes accepting that all members of our society are equal under the law.

And as for 'prayers' setting the tone of a meeting.
Religious ideals are based on a story.
They are essentially fiction.
In the bright light of day, they appear greyed and insipid.
If we need anything, it is a newly written statement, which sets out the intention of a meeting.
Let us stay on the straight and professional path.