Awarded to members of a unit for sustained outstanding service in warlike operations . This version is worn by members of the unit who were actually involved in the action(s). The Meritorious Unit Citation and the Unit Citation for Gallantry were introduced into the Australian Honours System in 1991.
Unlike awards for individuals, recognition of group endeavour has little history in honours systems around the world. The relatively recent tradition of unit citations introduced by the United States in 1942, has prompted broader recognition of collective endeavour. Past recipients: During the Australian Defence Force's deployment to East Timor following the 1999 consultation ballot a citation was awarded to:
- Task Unit 645.1.1, Royal Australian Navy - for sustained outstanding service in support of the International Force East Timor during Operation Stabilise.
- 3 Squadron Group, the Special Air Service Regiment, Australian Army - for sustained outstanding service as the Special Air Service Regiment of the Response Force for Operation Warden.
- No 2 Airfield Defence Squadron, Royal Australian Air Force - for sustained outstanding service during Operation Warden and Operation Stabilise.