National Medal

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The National Medal was created by Royal Warrant and is awarded by the Governor-General to recognise long and diligent service, by members of recognised government and voluntary organisations.

National Medal

Summary

  • The National Medal was created by Royal Warrant and is awarded by the Governor-General.
  • It was introduced in 1975, and was first awarded to CFA members in 1982.
  • The National Medal replaced the Fire Brigade Long Service and Good Conduct Medal.
  • The National Medal is Australia’s most awarded civilian medal.

Description

The National Medal recognises long and diligent service, by members of recognised government and voluntary organisations, that risk their lives or safety to protect or assist the community in enforcement of the law or in times of emergency or natural disaster.

This includes service organisations such as ambulance, correctional, emergency, fire and police forces, and voluntary organisations such as lifesaving or search and rescue groups.

Design

The National Medal is a circular bronze medal 38 millimetres in diameter ensigned with the Crown of St Edward. The front of the medal features the Commonwealth Coat of Arms in a recessed circle. The rim of the medal carries the inscription 'The National Medal'. The back of the medal is engraved with the recipient's name. The medal was designed by Mr Stuart Devlin AO CMG.

The 32 millimetre-wide ribbon features 15 alternating gold and blue vertical stripes. and the medal is complemented with a miniature and ribbon bar.

National Medal

Qualifying service

The National Medal is awarded for diligent service to the community in hazardous circumstances, including in times of emergency and national disasters, in direct protection of life and property.

Fifteen years’ service is required to quality for the National Medal. Clasps are available for each additional ten years’ service. Service does not need to be continuous to meet this requirement. Total service is considered.

In some circumstances, previous service in other approved organisations may be added to CFA service and counted towards the National Medal.

The Australian Government's Chief Officer’s Manual for the National Medal is the principal resource for interpreting the National Medal Regulations.

Further information

Learn about the National Medal, which recognises long and diligent service by members of eligible organisations that protect life and property at some risk to themselves.

National Medal – Governor-General website

 

Page last updated: Thursday, 10 September 2026 11:59:49 AM