It is divided into 15 classes and is the highest award in the Austrian national honours system.

The Decoration of Honour for Services to the Republic of Austria was first established by federal law on 4 November 1922.

The modern iteration of the Decoration of Honour for Services to the Republic of Austria was established by the National Council in 1952.

The Decoration of Honour for Services to the Republic of Austria is divided into 15 classes, as follows: The "Gold Medal for Services to the Republic of Austria" may also be conferred as "Gold Medal with Red Riband" awarded for bravery and lifesaving.

[4] See also List of honours of Austria awarded to heads of state and royalty Below is a list of all Grand Star recipients and other notable recipients, in chronological order with year of award in parentheses:.