The Australian States and Territories have instituted a range of awards to recognise service and achievement of members of State and Territory organisations. These include long service and bravery awards for police, ambulance emergency service and corrective service personnel. An example of a special State and Territory award is the medal instituted by the ACT to recognise those who were involved in fighting the 2003 bushfires. These awards are not included in the Australian system and are not to be worn with official awards on ADF uniform.
The administration of these awards is the sole responsibility of the respective States and Territories. Any queries about State and Territory awards should be directed to the protocol branches of the States and Territories, not to DH&A which has no authority or responsibility in administering these awards.
Awards such as the National Medal which recognises long service in a range of organisations, including State and Territory government organisations are part of the Australian system and are permitted to be worn on uniform with other official awards.
The text of an ADF signal relating to the ACT Emergency Services Medal may be seen here.