The Decoration of Honour for Services to the Republic of Austria is a state decoration of the Republic of Austria. It is divided into 15 classes and is the highest award in the Austrian national honours system.

History

The Decoration of Honour for Services to the Republic of Austria was first established by federal law on 4 November 1922. It initially had ten grades; later, it was expanded to sixteen grades. It was replaced in 1934 by the Austrian Order of Merit (Österreichischer Verdienstorden). The modern iteration of the Decoration of Honour for Services to the Republic of Austria was established by the National Council in 1952. It is conferred by the Republic of Austria to honour people (from Austria and abroad) who have rendered meritorious services to the country. Recipients are selected by the government. The awards are made by the President in accordance with the respective laws. The State President of Austria automatically receives the "Grand Star of the Decoration for Services to the Republic of Austria" by being elected to the office and holds this honour for life. This decoration should not be confused with other decorations in the Austrian honours system, such as the Austrian Decoration for Science and Art.

Classes

The Decoration of Honour for Services to the Republic of Austria is divided into 15 classes, as follows: The "Gold Medal for Services to the Republic of Austria" may also be conferred as "Gold Medal with Red Riband" awarded for bravery and lifesaving.

Notable recipients

See also List of honours of Austria awarded to heads of state and royalty Below is a list of all Grand Star recipients and other notable recipients, in chronological order with year of award in parentheses:.

Grand Star recipients

Royal Houses

Politicians

Other select recipients