Australians served in the Boer War, initially as members of the State Colonial forces and after Federation with Commonwealth units. Others who were unable to join Colonial or Commonwealth units enlisted in forces raised by other nations including Britain and South Africa.
Two campaign medals were issued for the Boer War during this period – the Queen’s South Africa Medal and, after the death of Queen Victoria, the King’s South Africa Medal. Eligible Australians were awarded one or two medals according to their period of service.
The campaign medals are worn in the position notified by the Governor-General in The Order of Wearing Australian Honours and Awards.