Order of Australia Medal

The Order of Australia Medal (OAM) is a distinguished award in the Australian honours system, recognizing Australian citizens and other persons for outstanding achievement and service. The Order was established on 14 February 1975 by Elizabeth II, Queen of Australia, and is administered by the Council for the Order of Australia.

Design and Insignia

The design of the Medal of the Order of Australia is a badge featuring a gold-plated silver insignia of the Order at its center. This central insignia is inscribed with the word “Australia" in gold capital letters. The circle also includes two gold sprigs of mimosa, reflecting the national floral emblem. The medal is surmounted by the Crown of St Edward, symbolizing the connection to the British monarchy.

The medal is hung from the ribbon of the Order, and its design is emblematic of the values and traditions upheld by the Commonwealth of Australia.

Nomination and Appointment Process

Nominations for the Order of Australia are considered by the Council for the Order of Australia, which makes recommendations directly to the Governor-General of Australia. Appointments to the Order are not made posthumously, which underscores the importance of recognizing contributions while the individuals are alive.

Categories and Precedence

The Order of Australia is part of the broader Australian honours and awards system, which includes various medals and decorations. The Order itself comprises several categories, with the Medal of the Order of Australia being a significant recognition of service to the community.

The Australian honours order of wearing outlines the precedence of such medals, ensuring the Order of Australia is worn with due respect among other national and international awards.

Notable Recipients

Throughout its history, numerous Australians have received the Order of Australia Medal for their service in various fields. Among them is Jessica Watson, an Australian sailor awarded the OAM for her remarkable achievements in sailing. Others have been recognized for contributions to philanthropy, such as Soheil Abedian, highlighting the diverse areas in which Australians are making significant impacts.

Related Orders and Medals

The Order of Australia is part of a broader context of Australian and Commonwealth honors. It coexists with other decorations such as the Public Service Medal (Australia) and the Distinguished Service Medal, each recognizing different forms of service and achievement.

Additionally, prior to the establishment of the Order of Australia, Australian citizens were often recognized with awards such as the Order of the British Empire, which included a related British Empire Medal, illustrating the historical evolution of honors within Australia.