Defence force medal approved

Australian Defence Force personnel will be given an ‘Australian Defence Medal’ (ADM).
La Trobe MP Jason Wood said the Queen had approved the official regulations and design for an award to recognise current and former Australian Defence Force (ADF) regular and reserve personnel.
“Also, volunteer and National Servicemen, who have served since the end of World War II,” Mr Wood said.
“The Australian Government is committed to recognising the outstanding contribution to our proud military history made by Australian men and women in uniform.
“After extensive consultation with veterans’ organisations and the wider community, the government has decided to broaden the eligibility criteria to include former ADF members who completed their initial enlistment period, or four years service, whichever is the lesser,” Mr Wood said.
“The criteria also recognises National Servicemen and those who could not serve the fouryear qualifying period because of the ADF’s workplace and enlistment policies of the time.
“The expanded criteria also includes those who died in service or are medically discharged due to permanent injury and unable to reach four years or complete their initial period of enlistment,” Mr Wood said.
For further information, a special application form for the ADM is available from the Defence website at www.defence.gov.au or by calling 1800 111 321.