Star of Gallantry

The Star of Gallantry was instituted in January 1991 when Australia introduced its own military bravery awards system. It was created to replace the British Distinguished Service Order and Distinguished Conduct Medal for gallantry.

Before 1991, Australian service members relied entirely on the British honours system for major combat valor decorations. The Star of Gallantry created a distinctly Australian way to honour severe combat bravery just below the Victoria Cross.

It features a circular bronze star suspended from a crimson ribbon with a central silver stripe, awarded only for outstanding valor in active combat.