Emergency Services Medal

The Emergency Services Medal (ESM) is awarded for distinguished service by a member of an Australian emergency service, and people who are involved in emergency management, training or education.

The medal was introduced in 1999, and recipients are entitled to use the post-nominal letters "ESM".

The Emergency Services Medal is considered to be among the highest honours available to Emergency Services personnel.

Awards are made by the Governor-General, on the nomination of the responsible minister in each state or territory, and at the federal level. The total number of awards made each year must not exceed the following quota:

One medal for every 1000 full-time members, or part of 1000, full-time members of the emergency service (or combined emergency services) of each state.

One medal for every 5000, or part of 5000 part-time, volunteer or auxiliary members of the emergency service (or combined emergency services).

One medal may be awarded in each of the Australian Capital Territory, the Northern Territory and the combined External Territories.