A period of hostilities is defined in section 5B(1) of the VEA to mean:
- World War 1 from its commencement on 4 August 1914 to 11 November 1918 (both included); or
- World War 2 from its commencement on 3 September 1939 to 29 October 1945 (both included); or
- the period of hostilities in respect of Korea from 27 June 1950 to 19 April 1956 (both included); or
- the period of hostilities in respect of Malaya from 29 June 1950 to 31 August 1957 (both included); or
- the period of hostilities in respect of war-like operations in operational areas from 31 July 1962 to 11 January 1973 (both included).