97th VC awarded to Aussie soldier. Or is it?.

[Lone Pine]

They annouced the other day the awarding of the 97th VC to an Australian soldier. But I'm told that this is what is known as an Australian version of a VC. I've also been told that it's not reccognised by the VC association, he won't be listed as a recipient, the official register will still show 96. It looks just like a real VC, but it's not made of the same metal, and it was not awarded by the Queen. So is it really a VC?. This soldier was very likely deserved a VC, but has he been cheated out of the real thing by our own government?. Any thoughts?.
Bruce

[Sean.E]

Hmmm interesting! Canada has done the similar thing with our VC. None have been awarded since the change so I am curious to see what happens. A shame if he doesn't receive the proper recognition!