It is one of two Unit Citations that acknowledge the value of collective effort in military operations. The other award is the Meritorious Unit Citation.
How it is awarded
The Governor-General awards the Unit Citation for Gallantry on the recommendation of the Minister for Defence.
Each award consists of a certificate of citation to the unit signed by the Governor-General and insignia for each recipient.
The citation may be awarded posthumously. There are no post-nominal entitlements.
History
The Unit Citation for Gallantry and the Meritorious Unit Citation were introduced into the Australian honours system in 1991.
Unlike awards for individuals, recognition of group endeavour has little history in honours systems around the world. The relatively recent tradition of unit citations introduced by the United States in 1942, has prompted broader recognition of collective endeavour.
The Unit Citation for Gallantry was formally established on 15 January 1991 by Letters Patent.
Medal design
The medal of a Unit Citation for Gallantry is a gilt sterling-silver frame with a design of flames emanating from the edge to the centre. The frame surrounds a ribbon bar of deep green, which displays a gilt sterling-silver Federation Star at its centre.
Members who join a unit after the citation is awarded are entitled to wear the insignia but without the Federation Star.