South African (Second Boer) War
THE RISING SUN EMBLEM
Since its introduction in 1902, the Rising Sun badge has served as a powerful emblem of Australian military service. Over the past century, eight successive designs have been adopted, each marking significant moments in the nation’s history and reflecting changes in military organisation, royal reigns, and national identity. Worn by Australian soldiers across major conflicts, including the Boer War, the First and Second World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, East Timor, Afghanistan, and Iraq, the Rising Sun remains a symbol of pride, courage, and service. Today, it continues to connect serving members and veterans with the rich heritage of the Australian Army.
The first pattern – February 1902
The second pattern – April 1902
South African (Second Boer) War
The second pattern badge added a scroll with the words ‘Commonwealth Horse’ and changed ‘Australia’ to ‘Australian’. This badge was a modified version for the Commonwealth Horse.
The third pattern – May 1904
World War I and World War II
The third pattern Rising Sun badge carried a scroll inscribed with the words ‘Australian Commonwealth Military Forces’ and was worn throughout both World Wars. A special version was struck for the coronation of King Edward VII in 1902. There were also badges of the Commonwealth Horse and the Australian Instructional Corps.
The fourth pattern – 1949
Korean War
Corps and regimental badges were reintroduced into the Army and the inscription on the scroll was changed to ‘Australian Military Forces’.
The fifth pattern – 1954
Vietnam War
The fifth pattern badge substituted the Tudor Crown with the St Edwards Crown
The sixth pattern – 1969
The badge went through another alteration, with the introduction of the Federation Star above a heraldic wreath. The inscription was once again changed to read ‘Australia’. This design was never fully issued.
The seventh pattern – 1991
Afghanistan, East Timor and Iraq conflicts
The seventh pattern was produced with ‘The Australian Army’ on the scroll and the removal of the Federation Star and heraldic wreath.
The eighth pattern – 2025
Current and to represent multiple periods of conflict