Australian Bravery Decorations
The Australian Bravery Decorations recognise acts of bravery where people selflessly put themselves in jeopardy to protect the lives or property of others.
"Australian Bravery Awards recognise and celebrate Australians who, faced with a
dangerous or perilous situation, think not of themselves or their own safety but about
others. These individuals deserve our admiration – they are an inspiration and examples of
the sort of selfless sacrifice that we can all aspire to.”Governor-General, General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd)
There are four levels of bravery awards to recognise the actions of individuals, as well as an award (established in 1990) to recognise acts of bravery by a group of people involved in a single incident:
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The Cross of Valour (CV) is the non-combat equivalent of the Victoria Cross and is awarded only for acts of the most conspicuous courage in circumstances of extreme peril. |
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The Star of Courage (SC) is awarded only for acts of conspicuous courage in circumstances of great peril. |
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The Bravery Medal (BM) is awarded only for acts of bravery in hazardous circumstances. |
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Commendation for Brave Conduct may be awarded for other acts of bravery which are considered worthy of recognition. |
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Group Bravery Citation shall be awarded for a collective act of bravery, by a group of persons in extraordinary circumstances that is considered worthy of recognition. |
Details
More detail is available in the Australian Bravery Decorations handbook. The book includes:
- Letters Patent and regulations
- images and descriptions of what each award looks like; and
- guidance on how decorations are worn.