Operational service can essentially be described as service overseas by a member of the Australian Defence Force in a time of war, or during war-like operations within a defined operational area.
'Operational service' is defined in Ss6A – 6F of the Veterans' Entitlements Act 1986 (the VEA). Section 6 of the VEA sets out a convenient summary:
|
S6A |
Operational service – world wars |
|
S6B |
Operational service – Australian mariners |
|
S6C |
Operational service – post World War 2 service in operational areas |
|
S6D |
Operational service – other post World War 2 service |
|
S6E |
Operational service – Korean demilitarised zone and Vietnam |
|
S6F |
Operational service – warlike and non-warlike service |
In broad terms, these categories of operational service can be described in the following terms: