National Police Service Medal Determination

Overview

The National Police Service Medal Determination 2016 was made under the authority of the Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, Sir Peter Cosgrove, with the approval of Her Majesty The Queen. This determination was introduced to formally define the design and specifications of the National Police Service Medal, which is awarded to recognise service as an Australian police officer. The enactment of this legislation by the Governor-General ensures that the medal adheres to the highest standards of representation and honour, reflecting the significant contributions made by police officers across Australia. The policy objective is to provide a clear and dignified design for the medal that honours the service and dedication of Australian police officers.

Scope and Application

The National Police Service Medal Determination, made under the authority of the Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, outlines the design, specifications, and protocols for the award and wearing of the National Police Service Medal, which is intended for recognition of service as an Australian police officer. The medal, along with its miniature and ribbon, is specifically crafted with detailed dimensions and colours to ensure uniformity and respectability. The Determination applies to all recipients of the medal, detailing not only the physical attributes of the medal but also the precise manner in which it should be worn and displayed, thereby setting a standard for ceremonial and formal occasions. This legislation does not explicitly state exclusions or exemptions but implicitly applies to individuals who have served as Australian police officers and are eligible for the award. The jurisdictional reach of this Determination is federal, applying across the Commonwealth of Australia, and it is expected that state and territory police forces will adhere to the standards set forth.

Key Provisions

The National Police Service Medal Determination (sections 1-6) outlines the design, appearance, and wearing instructions for the National Police Service Medal, which is awarded to recognise service as an Australian police officer. Specifically, the medal is described as a cupro-nickel medal 38 millimetres in diameter, featuring the Crown of Saint Edward and a fixed suspender bar. The obverse displays the seven-pointed Federation Star within a chequered band, while the reverse features the words "FOR SERVICE AS AN AUSTRALIAN POLICE OFFICER" around the edge and includes a plinth with two sprigs of golden wattle. The miniature of the medal is a half-size replica suspended from a 16 millimetre wide ribbon, and the full medal ribbon is 32 millimetres wide with specific colour arrangements. Additionally, the ribbon bar is 32 millimetres wide and 10 millimetres deep, without any emblem. The medal is to be worn on the left breast during formal occasions, and the miniature is worn during less formal occasions. The ribbon bar can be worn at the discretion of the holder, but not simultaneously with the full-size or miniature medal. The medal is positioned immediately after the Civilian Service Medal 1939-1945 in the Order of Wearing Australian Honours and Awards. The Determination imposes specific obligations on the recipients of the medal, including adherence to the prescribed wearing instructions and the proper display of the medal, miniature, and ribbon bar. Recipients must ensure the medal is worn correctly and respectfully, adhering to the order of wear as specified. Furthermore, the miniature and ribbon bar must be worn appropriately according to the context of the event. The Determination does not explicitly outline obligations for the issuing authority but implies a responsibility to ensure the medal is awarded in accordance with established criteria and regulations. While the Determination does not explicitly detail offences or penalties for breaches of its provisions, it is reasonable to infer that misuse or improper wearing of the medal could be considered dishonourable or disrespectful. Although the Determination does not provide specific penalties, breaches of protocol regarding the wearing and display of Australian honours and awards can lead to disciplinary actions or sanctions within the police force. Additionally, public display of the medal without qualification could result in administrative consequences or loss of the medal, as per general regulations governing the use of such honours.