To the Honourable the Speaker and the Members of the House of Representatives assembled in Parliament:

The Petition of certain citizens of Australia draws to the attention of the House:

That a citizen who serves to defend the country does so with the highest patriotic motives in mind. They know they could be called to serve in war and lay down their life. After that commitment they may leave the service without any tangible recognition being given to them. Unless a member receives a medal for overseas service their first chance of gaining a medal is for long service after 15 years service, if the member serves that long.

The medal sought is not for service in the sense of long service but more for the individual who makes a commitment to serve the Nation.

Your Petitioners pray that the House will institute a medal for two years full-time or part-time service in the Australian Defence Force from 1 January 1946 to the present and future servicemen and women who serve and protect our Nation.