Victoria Cross

The Victoria Cross was instituted in January 1856 as the premier award for gallantry to all ranks of the services.  It is awarded: For the most conspicuous gallantry, or a daring or pre-eminent act of valour or self-sacrifice, or extreme devotion to duty in the face of the enemy.

The Victoria Cross was retained as the pre-eminent gallantry award in the Australian system. The Victoria Cross for Australia was approved on 15 January 1991.