In recent history, the 2022-23 New South Wales Flood Events, designated as AGRN1034, brought unprecedented challenges to our rural and remote communities. This catastrophic natural disaster wreaked havoc across vast areas, displacing thousands, destroying homes, and severely impacting livelihoods. However, amid these dire circumstances emerged a shining beacon of hope and resilience: the selfless and courageous emergency services personnel and volunteers who worked tirelessly to protect and support affected communities.

Their relentless efforts under perilous conditions saved countless lives and alleviated widespread community suffering. Yet, despite the monumental impact of these floods and the heroic deeds of those who responded, there remains an absence of formal Australian Government recognition of this disaster's significance on a national scale, with the exemplary service of the emergency responders remaining unrecognised with the National Emergency Medal (NEM).

It is with a deep sense of urgency and respect that we, the undersigned citizens of Australia, supporters of emergency services personnel, and global emergency services allies, petition the Australian Government to award the National Emergency Medal to all eligible responders who demonstrated extraordinary service during this crisis.

The National Emergency Medal serves as a means to honor exceptional service in response to emergencies that the Government recognizes as nationally significant. Granting this medal to those who bravely stood at the forefront during the NSW flood response would be a profound acknowledgment of their dedication and sacrifices. Through this award, we not only recognize their individual valor but also foster a culture of appreciation for emergency personnel's indispensable roles in safeguarding our nation.

Statistics from the floods underscore the gravity of the situation: numerous towns inundated, road networks obliterated, and significant economic disruptions that exceeded billions of dollars in damages.

The AIDR Major Incidents Report 2022–23 documents this event as one of the most extensive flood disasters in Australian history. Key facts include:

• 213 continuous days of flood operations between August 2022 and March 2023.

• 165 NSW SES flood warnings issued across multiple river systems.

• More than 24,400 incidents, including 889 flood rescues.

• Over 1 million sandbags deployed— the largest issuance in NSW history.

• At its peak, five Incident Control Centres operating simultaneously.

• Catastrophic flooding across the Murray–Darling Basin affecting dozens of communities.

• International assistance required for the first time in Australian flood operations, involving New Zealand and Singapore Civil Defence Force personnel.

• A disaster area covering 40,000 km², approximately half the size of Tasmania.

• Tragically, seven deaths, more than 10,000 homes damaged, and thousands of people displaced.

Thousands of responders, including volunteers, were mobilised, working countless hours in adverse conditions to mitigate the disaster's impact. To date, they have been recognised with ‘thank you’ BBQs and platitudes.

We urge the Australian Government to act decisively and with the compassion that reflects our collective values. Recognising the 2022-23 New South Wales Flood Events with award of the National Emergency Medal for this significant emergency will rightfully honour those who put service above self. It will provide overdue recognition to our ordinary heroes, inspire future generations of responders, and ensure that their extraordinary efforts are enshrined in our national history. 

Your signature on this petition will contribute to an essential cause—ensuring our heroes receive the recognition they deserve. Please sign and share this petition to advocate for the valor of our emergency responders. Together, let's make sure their sacrifices are never forgotten.