The independent Defence Honours and Awards Tribunal is taking submissions for an inquiry into recognition of service with Rifle Company Butterworth, 1970-89.

"I am pleased that the Defence Honours and Awards Tribunal will inquire into recognition of service with Rifle Company Butterworth between 1970 and 1989. The Tribunal has commenced or completed inquiries into most of the issues identified by Government in its Defence election policy. This is the first additional issue that the Government has referred to the Tribunal," Dr Kelly said.

A call for submissions was released in the national press on Saturday 1 May 2010. Submissions to the inquiry close on Monday 7 June 2010.

"Service with Rifle Company Butterworth is currently recognised with the Australian Service Medal 1945-75 and Australian Service Medal with Clasp 'SE ASIA'. A number of people have raised with the Government and the Tribunal the issue of additional recognition for service with Rifle Company Butterworth. I would encourage them to now take advantage of this opportunity to make a submission," Dr Kelly said.

The Tribunal can be contacted at: