More than a quarter of a century after her iconic Olympic gold medal run in Sydney, Cathy Freeman has been awarded Australia’s highest honor. Freeman, recognized for her eminent service to athletics and her positive social impact, has been appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC). “It’s truly humbling,” Freeman remarked, expressing her surprise and gratitude for the recognition.
Freeman’s contributions extend beyond her athletic achievements. In 2007, she founded the Cathy Freeman Foundation, now known as Murrup, aiming to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children through education. As a mentor, Freeman emphasizes the importance of a brighter future for all Australians and looks forward to the Brisbane Olympics in 2032, which she sees as a “wonderful opportunity” for the nation.
Honoring Service Across the Nation
Nearly 700 individuals have been recognized in the 2026 Australia Day Honours List for their service to communities across the country. Of these, 10 have been made Companions of the Order of Australia, with 38 appointed as Officers of the Order of Australia (AO), 160 as Members of the Order (AM), and 472 receiving the Medal of the Order (OAM).
The list, however, highlights a significant gender imbalance, with 72 percent of recipients being male. The Council of the Order of Australia has called for more nominations of women, emphasizing the need for gender parity in future honors.
State-by-State Recognition
New South Wales
Maurice Kensell, affectionately known as Joe, has received an OAM for his dedication to the Jewish community and historical preservation. Kensell’s work in documenting Jewish marriages dating back to 1878 has been invaluable for families seeking proof of marriage.
Former Premier Kristina Keneally has been appointed an AO for her distinguished service to the people and parliaments of Australia and New South Wales. Australia’s eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, was awarded a Public Service Medal for her pioneering work in online safety, including a groundbreaking social media ban for under-16s.
Victoria
Melbourne-based social enterprise HoMie’s co-founders, Nicholas Pearce and Marcus Crook, were honored for their not-for-profit work supporting young people affected by homelessness. Musician and advocate Eliza Hull received an OAM for her disability advocacy and contributions to the arts.
Principal Zeynep Sertel was recognized for her work in the Muslim community, emphasizing the importance of nurturing confident leaders who embrace both their Muslim and Australian identities.
Queensland
Former Premier Annastasia Palaszczuk was made a Companion of the Order of Australia for her service to Queensland and her efforts in educational equity and public health. Her leadership during challenging times has left a lasting impact on the state.
Western Australia
Mathias Cormann, former WA senator and Australia’s finance minister, was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia. Now serving as the secretary-general of the OECD, Cormann reflects on the opportunities Australia has provided him since emigrating from Belgium.
Emeritus Professor Bruce Armstrong was also honored for his lifelong dedication to cancer research, despite facing early stages of dementia.
South Australia
Former Premier Steven Marshall received an AM for his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting South Australia’s decisive response to the global crisis.
Tasmania
Robert Higgins was recognized with an OAM for his contributions to billiards and snooker, as well as his significant role in Foodbank Tasmania.
Australian Capital Territory
Professor Peter Cook was named a Companion of the Order of Australia for his pioneering work in carbon capture and storage technology, a critical component in the fight against climate change.
Northern Territory
Felix Ho, a paramedic-turned-doctor, was honored for his service and leadership in St John’s youth volunteer program. Frank Ahmat received an OAM for his contributions to sports and the Indigenous community.
In a poignant moment, Midnight Oil drummer Rob Hirst was posthumously made a Member of the Order of Australia for his contributions to the arts, following his battle with pancreatic cancer.
Addressing the Gender Imbalance
The Council of the Order of Australia has acknowledged the gender imbalance in this year’s honors list, urging Australians to nominate more women who make significant community contributions. The Council’s statement highlights the equal number of women and men appointed as Companions of the Order, calling for this balance to be reflected across all levels of awards.
Recipients will be invited to ceremonies across the country in the coming months to receive their awards, as Australia continues to celebrate the diverse contributions of its citizens.
