Emergency Services Medals

In May 2001 State Cabinet approved a new State Medal and a Ministerial Commendation for the emergency services.  These awards were created to recognise the tireless and extraordinary work of persons contributing to community safety through operational emergency service organisations and associated agencies.  The SA Fire & Emergency Services Commission (SAFECOM) is responsible for administering this award process and making the recommendations to the Minister.

The two awards are as follows:

SA Emergency Services Medal (SAESM)

The SAESM is given to an individual who has demonstrated "distinguished and/or meritorious services of the highest order" in recognition of his or her significant contribution to the emergency services in South Australia.  The SAESM award is a full coin Medal set and framed certificate.

Ministerial Commendation

The Ministerial Commendation recognises significant effort, bravery or service and is awarded for "meritorious or courageous action".  The commendation is a framed certificate and lapel pin.

While it is recognised that most members of Emergency Services deserve recognition for their contributions, these Awards are intended for the few individuals who have gone that "extra mile".  Years of service alone is not normally sufficient justification for an Award.  Their personal contribution should in some way be considered to be truly extraordinary.

Acts of bravery are also considered for either Award.

Eligibility

All career staff and registered volunteers in the SA Country Fire Service (SACFS), SA Metropolitan Fire Service (SAMFS), SA State Emergency Service (SASES), SA Ambulance Service (SAAS), Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR), Surf Lifesaving SA (SLSSA) and SA Fire and Emergency Services Commission (SAFECOM) are eligible.

Process

SAFECOM provides nomination forms and information to Chief Officers for distribution within their Services.  Nomination forms are returned to Chief Officers who ensure sufficient information is provided to support nominations and to endorse nominations for the next stage. 

All nominations are forwarded to the SAFECOM Awards Committee.  Members of the SAFECOM Awards Committee include the SAFECOM CEO, SAMFS Chief Officer, SACFS Chief Officer and SASES Chief Officer.

SA Emergency Services Medals and Ministerial Commendations

Awarded to
SA COUNTRY FIRE SERVICE