History

The Australian Antarctic Medal was introduced on 2 June 1987 and it is awarded for scientific research and exploration with an Australian Antarctic expedition. In addition, the Medal is also conferred upon individuals who have supported the work. In order to be eligible for the award, an individual must generally render or support service for at least 12 months. The medal is awarded with an accompanying clasp which is inscribed with the years of service.

The obverse of the medal features the Southern Hemisphere surrounded by the description ‘FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE IN THE ANTARCTIC’. The reverse of the medal depicts an expeditioner using an icepick to dig outside of Mawson’s Huts, a series of buildings located in the eastern sector of the Australian Antarctic Territory.

Recipients are entitled to the post-nominal letters AAM.