History
The Iraq Medal was announced by the Prime Minister on Anzac Day 2004, alongside the Afghanistan Medal, and instituted by Letters Patent on 30 September 2004. It recognises the service of Australian Defence Force personnel in military operations in Iraq and prescribed areas on or after 18 March 2003.
The medal covers service within Operation Falconer, the initial coalition operation, and the follow on Operations Catalyst, Riverbank and Kruger.
Design & ribbon
The medal
The Iraq Medal is a cupro-nickel circular medal. The obverse features the Australian Coat of Arms surmounted by a Crown. The reverse shows a processional lion standing on a narrow plinth, symbolising balance, with the word IRAQ inscribed beneath.
The ribbon
Sand yellow for the desert, with central purple and red for the ADF and the conflict.
The ribbon is sand yellow, representing the desert sands of Iraq, with central stripes of purple and red representing the Australian Defence Force and the conflict in Iraq.
Eligibility
The medal is awarded by the Governor-General on the recommendation of the Chief of the Defence Force. It was awarded initially for seven days of service in the prescribed area from 18 March 2003. From 1 May 2003 the qualifying period was extended to thirty days.
- Qualifying service is within Operations Falconer, Catalyst, Riverbank and Kruger;
- The medal cannot be awarded for the same service that qualifies for the Australian Active Service Medal with clasp IRAQ 2003;
- The exact areas and periods are set out in the Letters Patent and Determination.
Order of wear
The medal is worn among the Australian campaign and operational awards, ordered by the date of the operation.
Frequently asked questions
When was the Iraq Medal established?
It was announced on Anzac Day 2004 alongside the Afghanistan Medal and instituted by Letters Patent on 30 September 2004.
What service does it recognise?
Service by Australian Defence Force personnel in Iraq and prescribed areas within Operations Falconer, Catalyst, Riverbank and Kruger from 18 March 2003.
How much service is needed?
Seven days of service from 18 March 2003, extended to thirty days from 1 May 2003.
How does it relate to the Active Service Medal clasp?
Iraq service is also recognised by the Australian Active Service Medal with clasp IRAQ 2003. The Iraq Medal cannot be awarded for the same service that qualifies for that clasp.
Is there a post-nominal?
No.
Does the medal have clasps?
No.