The Total Defence Awards (TDA) was first introduced in 1986 to recognise businesses -- specifically employers and civil resource owners -- for their contributions towards Total Defence (TD). Both the Committee to Strengthen National Service (CSNS) and the Advisory Council on Community Relations in Defence (ACCORD) recommended enhancing the awards for companies with pro-NS policies or human resource practices, and individuals or employers who are supportive of National Service (NS).
The revamped TDA was launched in 2015 to recognise a broader spectrum of NS advocates beyond businesses, to include educational institutions, families and community organisations as well as individuals. The Home Team NS Awards has also been integrated with the TDA. The revamped TDA aims to strengthen advocacy for NS by encouraging others to play their part in supporting our national servicemen.