OFFICIAL
THE HON MATT KEOGH MP
Minister for VETERANS’ AFFAIRS
MINISTER FOR DEFENCE PERSONNEL
MEDIA RELEASE
9 October 2026
GREATER RECOGNITION FOR RIFLE COMPANY BUTTERWORTH VETERANS
The Australian Government will reclassify service at Butterworth in Malaysia between 1970 and 1989 as ‘non-warlike service’, replacing the previous ‘peacetime service’ classification.
This decision acknowledges the unique environment in which Australian Defence Force personnel served while protecting RAAF Base Butterworth and supporting Australia's longstanding security commitment in the region.
The decision follows a Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal Inquiry into Medallic Recognition for Service with Rifle Company Butterworth, which recommended this change. The Government has accepted the Tribunal’s recommendations.
The Australian Government acknowledges that recognition has been sought by Butterworth veterans, families and ex-service organisations for some time. Their advocacy has helped ensure the experiences of those who served at Rifle Company Butterworth have been properly considered and understood.
We acknowledge those who served with Rifle Company Butterworth and of the role they played in advancing Australia's interests abroad.
To all those who served, the Australian Government recognises your contribution and thanks you for your service. These veterans will continue to be recognised with the Australian Service Medal.
Importantly, following registration of the legislative instruments, recognition as non-warlike service may provide access to additional veterans' entitlements and support as well as more beneficial claims assessment for conditions relating to this service.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel, the Hon Matt Keogh MP:
“Veterans who deployed with Rifle Company Butterworth between 1970 and 1989 made a valuable contribution to the security and stability of Malaysia during a time of uncertainty.
“The Government values their service, and that’s why we’ve carefully considered their submissions, as well as the recommendations of the independent Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Tribunal.
MEDIA CONTACT:
DVA Media: [email protected]
Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling provides 24/7 free confidential crisis support for current and ex-serving ADF personnel and their families on 1800 011 046 or openarms.gov.au. Safe Zone Support provides anonymous counselling on 1800 142 072. Defence All-Hours Support Line provides support for ADF personnel on 1800 628 036 or defence.gov.au/health/healthportal. Defence Member and Family Helpline provides support for Defence families on 1800 624 608.