Qualifying service for the Vietnam Medal includes:

• 28 days in ships or craft on inland waters or off the coast of Vietnam.

• One or more days on the posted strength of a unit or formation on land.

• One operational sortie over Vietnam or Vietnamese water by aircrew on the posted strength of a unit.

• Official visits either continuous or aggregate of 30 days.

• One day or more by members of accredited philanthropic organisations attached to Australian forces in an official capacity for full-time duty.