Senator The Hon Joe Ludwig |
The Hon Brendan O’Connor MP |
28/2010
21 May 2010
The Rudd Government has announced the criteria for the planned National Police Service Medal (NPSM), which will now be recommended for The Queen’s approval.
The Government announced its intention to establish the NPSM in December 2008. Consultation with police representatives began in early 2009 to determine the eligibility criteria and medal design.
The views of Federal, State and Territory police commissioners and policing organisations have been incorporated into the criteria and design of the medal.
Cabinet Secretary, Senator the Hon Joe Ludwig, said “This medal will recognise the ethical service, significant commitment and unique contribution to the nation demonstrated by sworn members of Australian police services”.
Police officers serving on or after 30 October 2008, who have completed at least 15 years police service, will be eligible for the medal.
Commissioners will also be able to recommend awards for officers who have served less than 15 years, if their period of service was terminated by death, injury or disability caused by their service.
The NPSM will be awarded irrespective of any entitlement to other awards. The National Medal will continue to recognise the long service of Australian police officers.
The Minister for Home Affairs, Brendan O’Connor, said “This new medal is another way that the people of Australia can express their appreciation for the dedication and sacrifice of our nation’s long-serving police officers.”
The Chief Executive of the Police Federation of Australia, Mark Burgess, said "We’re very pleased that the National Police Service Medal is about to become a reality for the hard working men and women of Australia's police forces. This medal will recognise the invaluable service Australia's police officers give communities across our country 24 hours a day seven days a week".
The Government will now seek The Queen’s agreement to the criteria, along with the design and placement in the Order of Wearing. We aim to begin issuing the NPSM later this year.
| Media Contacts: | Website: |
|---|---|
| Senator Ludwig's Office - Anika Wells - 0434 568 993 | www.cabinetsecretary.gov.au www.smos.gov.au |
| Minister O’Connor - Jayne Stinson , 0458 547 512 |