History

The Star of Gallantry was established in 1991 and is conferred upon members of the Australian Defence Force in recognition of exceptional gallantry or acts of heroism while in combat. Personnel of all ranks are eligible to receive this award.

This medal is the second highest military gallantry award, only exceeded by the Victoria Cross for Australia. It has been awarded a total of 7 times to date.

If a recipient receives the award again, it comes in the form of a gold-plated bar that features the Federation Star flanked by rows of flame. When the ribbon is worn by itself, the award of a bar is denoted with a Federation Star emblem. Recipients of this award are allowed to use the postnominal letters ‘SG’.

The Star of Gallantry has seven points and on the topmost point features the Crown of St. Edward. The obverse of the medal displays the Federation Star surrounded by flames. The reverse of the medal has a blank rectangular panel for the recipient’s name. The ribbon suspension bar features the inscription ‘FOR GALLANTRY’ on the obverse and reverse. The ribbon is red with upward facing chevrons in yellow.