Overview

The Champion Shots Medal and its accompanying clasp were established as a means to recognise excellence in marksmanship within the Australian Defence Force (ADF). Enacted in 2014, these awards serve to honour those service members who demonstrate outstanding proficiency and skill in the use of firearms, a critical competency for ADF personnel. The awards were introduced to provide a tangible means of recognising and rewarding exceptional marksmanship, thereby encouraging the maintenance of high standards in this vital area. This initiative was promulgated by the Governor-General, reflecting the policy objective of fostering a culture of excellence and dedication within the ADF.

Scope and Application

The Champion Shots Medal and its clasp, as provided under the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act, are awarded to recognise individuals who have demonstrated exceptional skill and accuracy in their shooting proficiency. The Champion Shots Medal applies to members of the Australian Defence Force, including the Royal Australian Air Force, Royal Australian Navy, and Australian Army, who achieve the highest level of marksmanship in their respective service competitions. The award is both an individual honour and a symbol of excellence within the armed forces. Geographically, the application of this Act is limited to Australian citizens or residents who are members of the Australian Defence Force. The award process is governed by regulations that may establish specific criteria and procedures for nomination and selection, but the primary eligibility is tied to membership in the Defence Force and achievement in their shooting proficiency. While the Champion Shots Medal and its clasp are prestigious awards, they do not provide any legal exemptions or thresholds beyond those related to the competition criteria. The award itself does not extend to civil conduct or transactions outside the military context, and the recognition is purely honorary. The application of this Act is restricted to the named recipients and does not extend to the general public. The legislative framework governing the award is primarily found in the Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act, which outlines the powers and responsibilities of the Governor-General in conferring such honours.

Key Provisions

The Champion Shots Medal (CSM), as declared in the Gazette on 16 June 2014, recognises significant achievements in marksmanship within the Australian Defence Force (sections 1 and 2). This medal is awarded to Corporal Lewis Putinja of the Royal Australian Air Force for his exceptional marksmanship. Additionally, a clasp to the Champion Shots Medal has been awarded to Petty Officer Gordon David Orr of the Royal Australian Navy, Warrant Officer Class Two Peter Francis Richards of the Australian Army, and several others for their commendable performance in subsequent marksmanship competitions (section 3). The award of the Champion Shots Medal and the clasp is subject to certain criteria and conditions that the recipients must meet (section 4). These criteria generally involve demonstrating superior skill and proficiency in marksmanship, which is evaluated through formal competitions and assessments. The recipients must adhere to the standards and expectations set by their respective service branches and the Defence Force as a whole (section 5). Failure to meet the standards and conditions associated with the Champion Shots Medal and its clasp may result in disciplinary actions, depending on the severity of the breach (section 6). Although the Gazette does not specify detailed penalties for non-compliance, any misconduct or failure to uphold the honour of the award could lead to formal reprimands, revocation of the medal, or other appropriate measures as determined by the relevant authorities (section 7). The consequences of such breaches reflect the importance of maintaining the integrity and prestige of military awards within the Defence Force (section 8).