History
Aboriginal people have worked in unity with police in Western Australia since the early nineteenth century, in roles the record names one after another: Aboriginal Assistants, Police Aides, Aboriginal Police Liaison Officers, police staff, Community Liaison Officers, and police officers. The WA Police Force Aboriginal Service Medal was created as a tangible acknowledgement of that dedication and service, and its inaugural presentation was held at Government House on 30 May 2019.
The medal is awarded to employees who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander with a minimum of three years of diligent and ethical service with the force. In the force's words, it denotes that Aboriginal employees are valued for their service, and conveys to the Western Australian community that Aboriginal people have maintained a strong role in law enforcement and in keeping the community safe. Former members who meet the criteria apply through the Honours and Awards Unit.
Design & ribbon
The medal
The WA Police Force does not publish a formal design description for the medal; the pattern supplied is the current issue, and the photographs above show its obverse and reverse.
The ribbon
The current WA Police Force issue.
The ribbon follows the pattern of the current issue, shown above.
Eligibility
The medal acknowledges the dedication and service to police duty of Aboriginal officers and staff of the WA Police Force.
- Employees who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, with a minimum of three years of diligent and ethical service with the force, are eligible;
- Former members who meet the criteria apply through the WA Police Force Honours and Awards Unit;
- The medal sits outside the national honours system and carries no post-nominal.
Order of wear
WA Police Force awards do not form part of the Australian honours system. They are worn separately from the national honours in the force's own order, with the WA Police Force dress policy governing their placement. On civilian racks they are mounted as a distinct group apart from the official awards.
Frequently asked questions
What is the WA Police Force Aboriginal Service Medal awarded for?
The dedication and service to police duty of Aboriginal officers and staff: employees identifying as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander with at least three years of diligent and ethical service.
Why was it created?
As a tangible acknowledgement of a history stretching to the early nineteenth century, through roles such as Aboriginal Assistants, Police Aides, Aboriginal Police Liaison Officers, police staff, Community Liaison Officers and police officers.
When was it first awarded?
The inaugural presentation was held at Government House on 30 May 2019.
Are former members eligible?
Yes, where they meet the criteria, by application through the force's Honours and Awards Unit.
Can it be worn with the Service Medal?
Yes. The two recognise different things and are worn together in the force's order, the Aboriginal Service Medal following the Service Medal.
Does it carry a post-nominal?
No.