I am pleased to announce that Her Majesty The Queen has approved new regulations for the National Medal.
Since its creation in 1975, the National Medal has recognised long service by members of Australian police, fire, ambulance, correctional and emergency services and the Australian Protective Service.
The new regulations extend the Medal to members of voluntary search and rescue groups. The government considers that their service to the nation warrants recognition. Eligible voluntary search and rescue groups are encouraged to seek accreditation so that their members can qualify for the Medal.
The opportunity has also been taken to make the regulations more flexible by enabling easier aggregation of eligible service. This will benefit in particular those who have both military and civilian service.
I commend the work of all the services whose dedication to the safety and well-being of the Australian community is recognised through the award of the National Medal.
4 August 1999