The National Emergency Medal is an award of the Australian honours system given for sustained service during a nationally significant emergency.

The COVID-19 pandemic has seen a state of emergency declared in most parts of Australia. Emergency services have been stretched to the limit undertaking extra duties related to the crises, often placing their own health at risk in service of the public. This is on top of the usual hazardous duties undertaken by these services. 

The medal is awarded for events specifically set out by regulation or may be awarded upon the recommendation of the National Emergency Medal Committee for significant service.

The National Emergency Medal should be awarded to all emergency services who have served throughout this period, keeping Australia safe.