History
The International Force East Timor Medal was introduced by Letters Patent on 25 March 2000. It recognises members of the Australian Defence Force, and certain others, who served with INTERFET in East Timor during the campaign from 16 September 1999 to 10 April 2000.
INTERFET was an Australian-led, United Nations sanctioned multinational force established to restore peace and security to East Timor following the violence that came after the 1999 independence referendum. Uniquely for an Australian medal, Australia offered the award to the other sixteen nations that contributed to the operation.
Design & ribbon
The medal
The medal is nickel-silver, stamped as one integral piece with its hanging bar, and surmounted by a connector featuring a raised Federation Star to symbolise that the force was led by Australia. The obverse depicts a dove holding an olive branch over a textured map of East Timor. The reverse carries the words TOGETHER AS ONE FOR PEACE IN EAST TIMOR.
The ribbon
A central red for East Timor's turbulent past, flanked by green, white and pale blue for the Army, Navy and Air Force.
The thirty-two millimetre ribbon has a central red stripe, flanked by stripes of green, white and pale blue. The red represents the turbulent past of East Timor, while the green, white and blue represent the Army, Navy and Air Force.
Eligibility
The medal is awarded by the Governor-General on the recommendation of the Chief of the Defence Force. The basic requirement is thirty days of service, continuous or in aggregate, or thirty sorties, in the operational area between 16 September 1999 and 10 April 2000.
- The operational area is East Timor and the sea adjacent out to twelve nautical miles;
- Certain civilians who served in direct support, such as civilian police, may also qualify;
- The award does not carry a post-nominal.
Order of wear
The medal is worn among the Australian campaign and operational awards, ordered by the date of the operation.
Frequently asked questions
What was INTERFET?
The International Force East Timor, an Australian-led, United Nations sanctioned multinational force established on 16 September 1999 to restore peace and security to East Timor.
Who is eligible for the medal?
Australian Defence Force members, and certain others, who served for thirty days, or thirty sorties, in the operational area between 16 September 1999 and 10 April 2000.
What is the operational area?
East Timor and the sea adjacent to East Timor out to twelve nautical miles from the low water mark.
Why is the medal offered to other countries?
Uniquely for an Australian medal, Australia offered it to the other sixteen nations that took part in INTERFET.
Is the service also recognised elsewhere?
Yes. Australian Defence Force members are also recognised by the Australian Active Service Medal with clasp East Timor.
Does it have a post-nominal?
No.