History
The Australian Operational Service Medal was established on 22 May 2012 by Letters Patent and the Australian Operational Service Medal Regulations 2012, replacing the Australian Active Service Medal and the Australian Service Medal for future operations. The Special Operations version recognises the service of Australian Defence Force members on special operations as declared by the Chief of the Defence Force from 1 November 2019, established by a declaration made in September 2019 and its determination that October, with a further declaration made in November 2023.
It continues a line of recognition that began with the Service Medal clasp Special Ops, which covered special operations from 1975 until 31 October 2019. Because of the nature of the service, applications are not accepted. When the Chief of the Defence Force declares a special operation eligible, a nominal roll containing the names of eligible members is provided to the Directorate of Honours and Awards and the medal is issued directly.
Design & ribbon
The medal
The Australian Operational Service Medal is a cupro-nickel medal finished in antique silver. The obverse bears an old-world stylised world globe signifying global operations, interlinked with a Federation Star, the globe surrounded by the words AUSTRALIAN OPERATIONAL SERVICE MEDAL. The reverse bears a central horizontal stylised scroll with the words Defending Australia and its national interests, overlaying a wreath of mimosa, above which sits an hourglass motif signifying the ongoing vigilance and timely response of Defence.
The ribbon
Black for the non-conventional conduct of special operations, a single red stripe for danger, strength and sacrifice.
The ribbon is black with a central thin red stripe. The black represents the non-conventional conduct of special operations, while the single red stripe represents danger, strength and the great sacrifices made by recipients in defence of Australia.
Eligibility
The medal is awarded by the Governor-General on the recommendation of the Chief of the Defence Force or a delegate, for service on special operations declared by the Chief of the Defence Force from 1 November 2019.
- Applications are not accepted; when a special operation is declared eligible, a nominal roll of eligible members is provided to the Directorate of Honours and Awards and the award is issued directly;
- The activities, areas and dates of declared special operations are specified by the Chief of the Defence Force;
- Special operations service before 1 November 2019 is recognised by the Australian Service Medal with clasp Special Ops.
Order of wear
The Operational Service Medals are worn among the Australian campaign and operational awards, after the Australian Service Medal. Where a person holds more than one Operational Service Medal, they are worn in order of date of qualifying service. The precise neighbours should be confirmed against the current Australian Order of Wear.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Special Operations medal recognise?
The service of Australian Defence Force members on special operations declared by the Chief of the Defence Force from 1 November 2019. The declared activities, areas and dates are specified by the Chief of the Defence Force.
How do I apply for it?
You do not. Applications are not accepted for this medal. When a special operation is declared eligible, a nominal roll of eligible members is provided to the Directorate of Honours and Awards and the award is issued directly.
What recognised special operations before this medal?
The Australian Service Medal with clasp Special Ops, which covered special operations from 14 February 1975 to 31 October 2019. This medal takes over from 1 November 2019.
What do the ribbon colours mean?
The black represents the non-conventional conduct of special operations, and the single red stripe represents danger, strength and the great sacrifices made by recipients in defence of Australia.
Where are the declared operations listed?
The operations are declared by the Chief of the Defence Force, and the declarations and determinations made under the Operational Service Medal Regulations are the authoritative record.
Does it carry a post-nominal?
No.