The International Force East Timor (INTERFET) Medal, is Australian in origin and was instituted in 2002 as an award to the Australian led International Force East Timor (Interfet) who served in 1999 -2000. The medal was also offered to New Zealand military personnel who served with INTERFET. 

In February 2002, the New Zealand Government approved the unrestricted acceptance and wear of the INTERFET Medal by eligible New Zealand personnel.