From the mid 19th century until 1975 the valour of Australian service men and women was recognised within the British Imperial system of honours and awards. The Victoria Cross, the highest decoration available, the Distinguished Conduct
Medal and the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal date from the Crimean War.
The high reputation accorded the Victoria Cross does not diminish the importance of other bravery awards. From 1886 military officers could receive the Distinguished Service Order and after 1901, naval officers, the Conspicuous Service Cross (later called the Distinguished Service Cross). The Military Cross for offi cers, the Military Medal for other ranks and the Distinguished Service Medal for the navy, were instituted in the First World War (1914-18). Air warfare gave rise to the Distinguished Flying Cross, Distinguished Flying Medal, Air Force Cross and Air Force Medal in 1918. From this time a Mention in Despatches was denoted by an oak-leaf badge worn on the ribbon of a service medal.
From 1975 the Australian system of honours and awards was created, including the Cross of Valour, Star of Courage and Bravery Medal. The Victoria Cross for Australia was introduced in 1991 along with the Star of Gallantry and Medal of Gallantry for bravery, and the Distinguished Service Cross and Distinguished Service Medal for leadership in operational situations. The distinctions between awards for offi cers and others ranks were removed.
Australian and Imperial honours and awards are worn on the left hand side of the chest, arranged in order of seniority from left to right.
The following stories are on display in the Gallery of Medals
Read more about the Gallery of Medals