The Government has today announced that it will seek an amendment to the Defence Act to make it an offence for people to wear a service medal in a manner that falsely indicates that it has been conferred on them, when it has not.

Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Senator David Feeney said the proposed amendment will address concerns expressed by the veterans' community over the incorrect wearing of unofficial decorations.

“We will be amending the Defence Act to include an offence of wearing an unofficial service decoration on the left breast,” Senator Feeney said.

An unofficial service decoration is one that has not been officially conferred on an individual.

“The proposed offence will be in addition to the protections for service decorations that are already contained in the Defence Act, and is in line with suggested changes to the Defence Act that have been raised by veterans and the Prime Ministerial Advisory Council on Ex-Service Matters,” Senator Feeney said.

The amendment will also be in line with Commonwealth guidance regarding the wearing of unofficial service decorations that appears on the Government's 'It's an Honour' website.

“Such an amendment is an example of the Government’s commitment to veterans and former members of the Defence Force and the honour system that reflects the sacrifices they have made for our country and people,” Senator Feeney said.

Media contacts:

Senator Feeney’s Office: Jeffrey Von Drehnen 0477 348 476

Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999