Mr Robert asked the Minister representing the Minister for Defence, in writing, on 11 May 2010:

Has the Government updated the Conditions of Service for Operation SLIPPER, to enable servicemen and women involved in the maritime operation to receive the 'Afghan Campaign Medal', also known as the 'Afghanistan Medal'; if not, when will they be reviewed.

Mr Combet – The Minister for Defence has provided the following answer to the honourable member’s question:

Yes.  The Instrument of declaration and determination for the Afghanistan Medal has been updated, to reflect a change in the geographical boundaries of Operation SLIPPER, and was signed by the Governor-General on 26 March 2010. This was published in the Special Gazette No. S 46 published 7 April 2010.  The updated determination provides for all personnel assigned to Operation SLIPPER, including those involved in maritime operations, to qualify for the Afghanistan Medal providing they meet the qualifying criteria.

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