Defence Long Service Medal (DLSM)

The Defence Long Service Medal is an Australian military service medal established to recognize the long-term service and dedication of members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF). The medal honors those who have displayed a commitment to the defence of Australia and its interests over an extended period and acknowledges their loyalty and contribution to the nation's security.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the Defence Long Service Medal, personnel must have completed a minimum of 15 years of service in the Australian Defence Force. The medal is awarded to members of the Australian Regular and Reserve forces, as well as to those who have served in both capacities. Additional clasps may be issued for each subsequent period of 5 years of service completed. The DLSM replaced the DFSM, RFM, and RFD, and therefore personnel are not entitled to have the previous medals alongside the DLSM.

Clasps 

The DLSM shares the same design clasp as the DFSM and RFM. Clasps are issued for every additional 5 years of service after the initial award of the medal. The clasp is attached to the ribbon above the medal with the full size and miniatures, and represented by a rosette or Federation Star (replaces the rosettes on the fifth clasp) on the ribbon bar. If you would like to purchase a clasp for your medals please click here: DFSM/DLSM/RFM Medal Clasp. DFSM/DLSM Dot for Ribbon Bar.

Design

The Defence Long Service Medal is designed as a circular, cupro-nickel medallion featuring the Defence Joint Service emblem on the obverse, surrounded by two sprigs of wattle. The reverse features a central plaque, traditionally engraved with the recipients name and service number, surrounded by the words "FOR SERVICE IN THE AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE".

Ribbon

The ribbon of the Defence Long Service Medal has a base of blue, with four central stripes of yellow-gold, and yellow-gold edges. The colours and design reflect those of the awards the DLSM replaced.