Rather, it acknowledges the ethical and diligent commitment, and the unique contribution to the community, demonstrated by sworn members of Australia’s police forces.

The award came about as a result of the lobbying of various individuals and professional bodies, but principally by the Police Federation of Australia.

The Federation Star is located inside a circular chequered band, known as the Sillitoe tartan, which is an internationally recognised symbol of Police.

This design signifies the unity and cooperation between each of the individual state, federal and territory police forces, which thereby join together as a shield to protect the entire Commonwealth.

The words: ‘FOR SERVICE AS AN AUSTRALIAN POLICE OFFICER’ in capital letters appear around the inside of the outer rim.

The thin red stripes represent the ever-present hazards experienced in service as an Australian police officer.