History

The Australian Police Medal was introduced on 3 March 1986 and is awarded to members of the Australian Police Force in recognition of distinguished service.

Individuals are nominated by the responsible minister in their state or territory and the awards are conferred by the Governor-General. The number of awards conferred may not exceed 1 medal for every 1,000 full time members of the police force. Recipients are entitled to the post-nominal letters APM.

The obverse of the medal features the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II superimposed over the Federation Star. The Crown of St. Edwards is surmounted over the medallion. The reverse of the medal features the inscriptions ‘AUSTRALIAN POLICE MEDAL’ and ‘FOR DISTINGUISHED SERVICE’. The inscriptions are surrounded by a wreath of golden wattle flowers.