The Australian Defence Medal is an Australian military decoration which recognises current and former Australian Defence Force personnel who completed an initial enlistment period, or four years' service.

[1] It was established on 20 March 2006; however, it recognises qualifying efficient service of current and former Australian Defence Force Regular and Reserve personnel, including National Servicemen, who have served since 3 September 1945.

[2] It is estimated that up to one million current and ex-serving personnel are eligible for the award.

[5] At 30 June 2010, a total of 242,576 had been awarded.

[6] The criteria also include those who could not serve the four-year qualifying period or complete an initial enlistment period for one or more of the following reasons: