Latest Update on NZDF Medal
Questions and Answers on the the New Zealand Defence Force Medal (as at 4 August 2010)
Q. How many years of service are required to be awarded the New Zealand Defence Force Medal?
A. The Government is currently considering the appropriate length of service required for the proposed New Zealand Defence Force Medal, along with the other eligibility criteria. An announcement is expected in 2010.
Q. When can I apply for the new medal?
A. The NZDF is NOT currently accepting applications for the planned New Zealand Defence Force Medal. It is anticipated that a call for applications will happen before the end of 2010.
Q. When will I receive the new medal?
A. It will take approximately 20 to 22 weeks from when a decision is made by the Government, before any medals are available to be issued. There will need to be a tender process for the manufacturer(s), and then the medal and ribbon will still need to be manufactured. The NZDF Medals Office also expects a large number of people to apply for the medal and, even with extra staff to process the applications, this could potentially be a two to three year project.
Q. I am a uniformed currently-serving member of the NZDF. Will I need to apply for the new medal?
A.No. Medal entitlement for currently-serving military personnel will be actioned through normal NZDF Service administrative channels. As for other medals, currently-serving personnel will not be required to apply for the new medal. Data will be drawn off ATLAS and processed through normal channels.
Q. I have heard about the New Zealand Defence Force Medal and a survey about it. What is happening?
A. From 15 June to 23 July 2009 a survey was held to obtain information from current and ex-service personnel and the public about a proposed New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) Medal for non-operational service since 3 September 1945.
Q. What has happened since the survey closed?
A. The survey results were analysed and a report was given to the Government on potential eligibility criteria for the proposed medal. The Government is currently considering the report, and is expected to make an announcement in 2010.
Q. I have been told that the Minister of Defence said something about the new medal at the RNZRSA National Council on 13 October 2009. What did he say?
A. Wayne Mapp said “The Government is committed to formally recognising non-operational service. This is long overdue. Medallic recognition for those who undertook Compulsory Military Training and balloted National Service has been under consideration since the late 1990s. The Associate Minister and I are currently considering a report from the Joint Working Group proposing the best way forward for this important project.” The full speech by the Minister can be read on http://www.beehive.govt.nz
Q. Where can I find more information on the New Zealand Defence Force Medal and the survey?
A. See the FAQ and Administrative Updates – NZDF Medal page of our website and the About the proposed medal webpage too.