January 1 - 31, 2026: Issue 650

 

2026 Australia Day Honours List: Locals Honoured

The Honourable Kristina Keneally AO, The Honourable Geoffrey Bellew SC AM, Geoffrey Davidson AM, Dr Sarah Hill AM, Rob Hirst AM, Jack McCoy AM, Nicolas Mersiades AM, Peter Collings OAM , Detective Chief Inspector Matthew Kehoe APM and Tracey Hare-Boyd ESM

Jack McCoy AM - Photo: Grant Ellis

The Australia Day 2026 Honours List recognises and celebrates 949 Australians, including awards in the Order of Australia (General and Military Divisions), meritorious awards and recognition for distinguished and conspicuous service. This represents an increase of over 200 more awards than on Australia Day last year. 

The General Division of the Order of Australia

The 680 recipients of awards in the General Division of the Order of Australia (all recipients names and citations), include:

  • 10 appointments as Companions of the Order of Australia
  • 38 appointments as Officers of the Order of Australia
  • 160 appointments as Members of the Order of Australia
  • 472 awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia

Meritorious Awards

The 187 Meritorious awards include recipients of the Public Service Medal, the Australian Police Medal, the Australian Fire Service Medal, the Ambulance Service Medal, the Emergency Services Medal, the Australian Corrections Medal and the Australian Intelligence Medal. 

Military Awards

There were 22 recipients of awards in the Military Division of the Order of Australia (10 AM and 12 OAM), and 60 distinguished and conspicuous awards.

Her Excellency, The Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Governor General of the Commonwealth of Australia, stated via video:

''Hello everyone. I'm filming this message at Admiralty House in Sydney on the lands of the Camaragel where I pay my respects to elders past and present. As your Governor-General, I am delighted to celebrate the 949 exceptional Australians who are recognised on the Australia Day 2026 honours list. 

This long list of civilian and military honours is an increase of over 200 awards since the Australia Day list just last year. Happily, this also reflects an increase in the number of nominations of Australians. I really hope that this trend continues.

The honours are testament from across the country to the enduring value Australians place on acts of care, kindness, and respect, to pursuing excellence, to serving the country, and to contributing to the peace, stability, and success of our modern Australia.

From the youngest recipient at 32 years of age to our two oldest recipients who are just about to turn 100, this list is a celebration of the many Australians who inspire the best in all of us. The list's remarkable diversity of interest and expertise represents Australians who embody service, community, kindness, curiosity, tenacity, accomplishment, and care. Among the 10 recipients of the highest honor, the companion of the Order of Australia, are distinguished judges and leaders, brilliant scientists, and beloved icons of Australian sport.

Like all this before, the 2026 honours list shows that great Australians come from all over our magnificent country and from all walks of life. 

As we celebrate today's recipients, we must pause though and acknowledge the bravery and selflessness of so many in the wake of the anti-Semitic terror attack at Bondi. As the prime minister has announced, a special honours list that recognises and acknowledges the extraordinary heroic efforts of those who responded at that time will be released. And we'll also see many nominations for emergency and bravery awards of first responders and volunteers who have worked with such courage and selflessness to the devastating natural disasters that have taken place across the country.

Throughout 2025, we celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Australian honours system and the people who for the past half century have epitomised the best of Australia. As this list so vividly showcases, so many Australians continue to give the best of themselves across many endeavours and often in the interests of others. 

I want to also pay tribute to the friends and families who support those that we honour today.

Congratulations to everyone recognised  in the Australia Day 2026 honours list.

On behalf of all Australians, thank you for all you've given our nation and for inspiring the very best in all of us.''

Residents Honoured

Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in the General Division
The Honourable Kristina Kerscher Keneally, Scotland Island and Liverpool

For distinguished service to the people and the Parliament of Australia, to the Parliament of New South Wales, particularly as Premier, and to the community.

Parliament of Australia

  • Senator for New South Wales, 2018-2022.
  • Deputy Labor Leader in the Senate, 2019-2022.
  • Member, Leadership Group, 2019-2022.
  • Shadow Minister, Home Affairs, Immigration and Citizenship, Government Accountability.
  • Member, Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security, 2019-2022.
  • Member, Senate Select Committee on Stillbirth Research and Education, 2018.
  • Member, Referendum Council, Constitutional Recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians, 2015-2017.

Parliament of New South Wales

  • 42nd Premier, 2009-2011.
  • Minister for Redfern Waterloo, 2008-2011.
  • Minister for Planning, 2008-2009.
  • Minister for Disability Services, 2007-2008.
  • Minister for Ageing, 2007-2008.
  • Member for Heffron, 2003-2012.

Media

  • Co-Host, To the Point.
  • Co-Host, Credlin Keneally, c2015.
  • Political Columnist, The Guardian, 2014-2019.

Professional - Other

  • Chief Executive Officer, Sydney Children's Hospitals Foundation, since 2022.
  • Adjunct Professor and Director, Women in the MBA Program, Macquarie Graduate School of Management, 2015-2017.
  • Former Board Member, United States Studies Centre, The University of Sydney.

Community

  • Patron, Stillbirth Foundation Australia, 2010-2017.
  • Council Member and Ambassador, Opportunity International, 2011-2017.
  • Ambassador, The John Berne School, 2014-2017.

Basketball Australia

  • Chief Executive Officer, 2012-2014.
  • Chair, c2011.

Souths Cares

  • Chair, 2016.
  • Director, 2011-2016.

Awards and Recognition include:

  • Walkley Award for Excellence in Journalism (Sky News Team) - Coverage of the 2016 Election.
  • Logie Award (Sky News Team), Most Outstanding News Coverage - 2016 Election.

Kristina Marie Kerscher Keneally (born 19 December 1968) is an American-born Australian politician who served as the first female Premier of New South Wales from 2009 to 2011 and was later a Labor Senator for New South Wales from February 2018 until April 2022. She resigned from the Senate to contest the House of Representatives seat of Fowler, but was unsuccessful. From 2019 to 2022 she served as Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Senate, Shadow Minister for Home Affairs, and Shadow Minister for Immigration and Citizenship.

Kristina Keneally with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras in 2021. Photo: Bruce Baker

Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division
The Honourable Geoffrey John Bellew SC, NSW

For significant service to the judiciary and the law, to the legal profession, and to rugby league.

Law

  • Justice, Supreme Court of New South Wales, 2012-2023.
  • Senior Counsel, New South Wales, 2006-2012.
  • Admitted to the Bar, 1991.
  • Admitted as a legal practitioner,1983.
  • Various legal roles, including Principal Legal Officer, Acting Senior Assistant Director, Office of the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions, 1983-1988.

Government Authorities

  • Chair, New South Wales State Parole Authority, since 2023.
  • Chair, New South Wales Racing Appeals Tribunal, since 2023.

Notre Dame University Sydney

  • Adjunct Professor of Law, since 2018.
  • Former Member, Law Advisory Board.
  • Sessional Lecturer, 2024.

National Rugby League (NRL)

  • Head of Judiciary, International Rugby League, since 2024.
  • Chair, Judiciary Committee, since 2015.
  • Director, 2000-2001.
  • Chair, Northern Eagles Joint Venture, Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles and North Sydney Bears, 2000.
  • Chair, Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles, 2002-2003.
  • Chair, NRL Player Agent Accreditation Committee, 2008-2011.

Other

  • Sessional Lecturer in Evidence (Law Extension Committee), The University of Sydney, 2025.
  • Lecturer and Advocacy Coach, New South Wales Bar Practice Course, New South Wales Bar Association, since 2008.
  • Co-Author, various law publications including Halsbury’s Laws of Australia; District Court NSW Practice; Ritchies Uniform Civil Procedure (NSW); Uniform Evidence Law, since 1992.

Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division
Mr Geoffrey Noel Davidson, Clontarf 

For significant service to sailing as a competitor and administrator.

Yachting NSW (now NSW Sailing)

  • President, 2009-2011.
  • Vice President, 2007-2008.
  • Board Member, 2005-2011.
  • Member, Yachting Association of NSW Foundation, 1984-1996.

Australian Yachting Federation (now Australian Sailing)

  • Member, Restructure Review Working Group, 2010-2011.
  • Member, National Coaches Committee, 1985-1996.
  • National Coach, 1985-1986.

Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron

  • Member, Waterfront Committee, 2006-2024.
  • Member, Sailing Committee, 2007-2025.
  • Director, General Committee, 2012-2018.
  • Member, current.

Australian Olympic Committee

  • Finn Class Representative, Sailing, National Olympic Planning Committee, 1975-1984.
  • National Coach, 1985-1996.
  • Member, Sailing Committee, Sydney Olympic Bid Committee, 1991-1993.
  • AYF Technical Advisor, Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games, 1993-1998.
  • Attaché, Belgian Olympic Team, 1997-2000.

NSW Olympic Committee

  • Vice President, 2003-2022.
  • Director, 1993-2022.
  • Executive Member, 1985-2000.
  • Yachting Representative, 1985-2021.
  • Life Member, NSW Olympic Committee, since 2021.

Yachting - Other

  • Chairman, Centreboard Division, Middle Harbour Yacht Club, 1997-1999.
  • International Finn Association of Australia Inc, President, 1979-1984.
  • Committee Member, various NSW based Class Associations, 1970-1975.
  • National Champion, Finn Class, 1978-1981.
  • NSW Champion, Finn Class, 1978-1981.
  • Yachting Olympian, Finn Class, 1980.
  • Yachting Olympian Reserve Helmsman, 1984
  • Yachting Olympian Reserve Crew, 1988

Awards and Recognition include:

  • Barranjoey Pin, Australian Sailing Team, 2018.
  • Life Member, New South Wales Olympic Council, 2020.
  • Life Member, Australian Finn Class Association, 2020.

Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division
Dr Sarah Louise Hill, Seaforth 

For significant service to public administration, to urban planning, and to public policy.

Public Investment Fund, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

  • Executive Project Director, since 2023.

New South Wales Department of Planning, Industry and Environment

  • Deputy Secretary, Strategic Directions and Integration, 2019-2020.
  • Chief Executive Officer, Greater Sydney Commission, 2016-2020.

New South Wales Government Roles

  • Chief Executive Officer, Western Parkland City Authority (now Bradfield Development Authority), 2020-2023.
  • Deputy Secretary, NSW Treasury, 2020-2021.
  • Chair, Western Sydney Transport Infrastructure Panel, 2022-2023.
  • Director, NSW Building Professionals Board, NSW Government 2013-2016.
  • Former Member, NSW Government’s 2012 Affordable Housing Taskforce.

Professional

  • Director, HillDPA Consulting, 2006-2016.
  • Associate Director, EDAW, 2005-2006.
  • Head, Major Development Assessments, London Borough of Hackney, United Kingdom, 2004-2005.
  • Principal Planner, Joint Planning Authorities Team, London Olympics, United Kingdom, 2003-2004.

Planning Institute of Australia

  • President, New South Wales Division, 2013-2015.
  • Fellow, since 2016.

Professional Associations

  • Adjunct Professor, and Former Chair, Faculty of Design, Architecture and Building Industry Advisory Board, University of Technology Sydney, since 2015.
  • Member, Chief Executive Women, since 2022.

Rowing NSW

  • Director, 2015-2023.
  • Member, since 1994.

Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division
The late Mr Robert George Hirst, formerly of Manly, Balmoral Beach and Byron Bay

For significant service to the performing arts through music.

Midnight Oil

  • Drummer and Percussionist, 1976-2026.
  • Chief Songwriter, 1976-2026.
  • Musician and Collaborator, 31 albums, 1978-2022.
  • Co-Founding Member, 1976.

Backsliders

  • Drummer and Percussionist, 2000-2026.
  • Musician and Collaborator, six albums, 2002-2020.
  • Member, 2000-2026.

O’Shea

  • Drummer and Percussionist, 2015-2024.
  • Musician and Collaborator, one album, 2020.

The Break

  • Drummer and Percussionist, 2010-2013.
  • Musician and Collaborator, two albums, 2010-2013.
  • Founding Member, 2010.

Angry Tradesmen

  • Drummer and Percussionist, 2002-2008.
  • Musician and Collaborator, one album, 2008.
  • Founding Member, 2002.

Ghostwriters

  • Drummer and Percussionist, 1990-2007.
  • Musician and Collaborator, four albums, 1991-2007.
  • Founding Member, 1990.

Music

  • Musician and Collaborator, One Voice, The Hillmans, 2023.
  • Musician and Collaborator, Powerful Owl, 2018.
  • Musician and Collaborator, The Sun Becomes The Sea, 2014.
  • Former Musician and Collaborator, Hirst and Sennett.
  • Former Musician and Collaborator, Hirst and Greene.
  • Former Fundraiser, Yodifee House Cambodia.

Community

  • Former Patron, Green Music Australia.
  • Ambassador, The Mirabel Foundation, 2024.
  • Member, Australasian Performing Right Association, 1978-2026.

Publications

  • Documentary Guest, Midnight Oil: The Hardest Line, Beyond Entertainment, 2024.
  • Guest, Rob Hirst: From sleeping on beaches to drumming with Midnight Oil, Songs and Stories Podcast, The Australian Broadcasting Corporation, 2023.
  • Guest, Midnight Oil’s Rob Hirst, Conversations Podcast, The Australian Broadcasting Corporation, 2019.
  • Author, Willie’s Bar and Grill, Momentum, 2014.

Awards and Recognition include:

  • Co-Winner, Song of the Year, Gadigal Land, Midnight Oil, Australasian Performing Rights Association, 2021.
  • Co-Winner, Gold Medal for Human Rights, Midnight Oil, Sydney Peace Foundation, 2020.
  • Co-Winner, Ted Albert Award for Outstanding Services to Australian Music, Midnight Oil, Australasian Performing Rights Association, 2018.
  • Co-Winner, Video of the Year, The Truth Walks Slowly (In The Country Side), O’Shea, The Country Music Awards of Australia, 2017.
  • Co-Winner, Starvation Box, Backsliders, iTunes Best Blues and Roots Album, 2011.
  • Co-Winner, Midnight Oil, ARIA Hall of Fame, 2006.
  • Co-Winner, Midnight Oil, 11 ARIA Awards, 1988-2004.
  • Co-Winner, Hanoi, Best Blues and Roots Album, Backsliders, 2002.
  • Co-Winner, Gold Award, Beds Are Burning, Midnight Oil, Australasian Performing Rights Association, 1991.
  • Co-Winner, International Viewer’s Choice MTV Award Australia, Blue Sky Mine, Midnight Oil, MTV Awards United States, 1990.

Tribute running this Issue in: Vale – Robert George Hirst AM (Rob) of Manly, Balmoral Beach, and Byron Bay

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - JULY 2007: Singer Rob Hirst of Ghostwriters and also Drummer of Midnight Oil performs on stage at the Australian leg of the Live Earth series of concerts, at Aussie Stadium, Moore Park on July 7, 2007 in Sydney, Australia. Launched by former US Vice President Al Gore to combat Global Warming, the concert was one of a series taking place over a 24-hour period on July 7 across seven continents. (Photo by Gaye Gerard/Getty Images)

Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division
The late Mr Jack McCoy, formerly of Clareville, Avalon Beach and Scott's Head

For significant service to surf cinematography.

Surf Filmmaker

  • Cinematographer, Producer, Director and Film Maker, over 30 feature films including:
    • Blue Horizon, 2004;
    • Occy the Occumentary, 1998;
    • Bunyip Dreaming, 1990; and
    • Storm Riders, 1982.

Surfing

  • Former Ambassador, Surfrider - Surfers for Climate, Living Ocean, Patagonia.
  • Founding Member, Back Door surfing magazine, 1975.

Visit 2025 Tribute: In Loving Memory of Jack McCoy and Celebrating Jack McCoy: More than a Paddle Out


Jack McCoy at work

Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division
Mr Nicolas George Mersiades, Balgowlah Heights 

For significant service to aged welfare.

Aged Care

  • Deputy Chair, Aged Care Financing Authority, 2012-2021.
  • Board Member, Aged Care Advisory Committee, Independent Health and Aged Care Pricing Authority, since 2023.
  • Former Member, Aged Care Sector Committee.
  • Former Member, Aged Care Quality Advisory Council, Aged Care Quality Agency (now Aged Care Quality and Safety Consultative Forum).

Department of Health

  • First Assistant Secretary, Aged Care Division, 2002-2006.
  • State Manager, New South Wales, 1999-2002.
  • State Manager, Queensland, 1994-1999.
  • Principal Advisor, Budget Management Branch, 1991-1994.

Professional - Other

  • Director Aged Care, Catholic Health Australia, 2009-2022.
  • General Manager Strategic Policy, Catholic Healthcare, 2006-2009.
  • Senior Executive Service, Department of Finance, 1987-1991.

Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division
Mr Peter John Collings, Mona Vale 

For service to the communities of Narrabeen and Mona Vale.

Narrabeen Amateur Swimming Club

  • President, c2010-2015.
  • Senior and Junior Handicapper, c2006-2010.
  • Member, since c1990.
  • Life Member.

Narrabeen Learn to Swim

  1. Member, 2019-2021.
  2. Instructor, Australian Swim and First Aid courses.

Mona Vale Surf Lifesaving Club

  • Nipper Age Manager, c1989-1995.
  • Life Saver Beach Patrol, c1989-1995.

Pittwater RSL Football Club

  • Coach, ~ 25 years.
  • Manager, Premier League Team, c4 years.
  • President, 1997-1999.
  • Vice President, 1992-1996.
  • Life Member, since 2001.

Dads Army, Palm Beach Golf Club

  • Secretary, c4 years.
  • Treasurer, c4 years.
  • Handicapper, c4 years.

Recognition and Awards include:

  • Certificate of Recognition, New South Wales Volunteer of the Year Awards, 2020 and 2021.


PBGC's Dad's Army in 50th year - 2023. Photo: Chris Searl (son of Geoff Searl OAM, president of ABHS)

Australian Police Medal (APM)
New South Wales
Detective Chief Inspector Matthew James Kehoe

For distinguished service as a member of an Australian police force.

Detective Chief Inspector Matthew Kehoe joined the NSW Police Force on 18 September 1987 and worked at Dee Why, Manly and Frenchs Forest police stations. In 1995 he commenced criminal investigation duties at Manly Police Station and was designated as a detective in 1997. He transferred to the Corrective Services Investigation Unit, State Crime Command before being promoted to sergeant at Lismore in 2005. He continued to perform a number of duties across northern NSW including a term as the general manager of Industry Regulations at the NSW Firearms Registry over the years. In 2018 he transferred to the Tweed/Byron Police District as a duty officer, then in 2019 he was promoted to a detective chief inspector at the Tweed/Byron Police District. He is currently the officer in charge of the Byron Bay Police Station, performing the role of an operations district inspector.

He has consistently navigated complex challenges throughout his career. His ability to maintain public trust and uphold the integrity of the NSW Police Force has been achieved through proactive engagement with locals, community groups, and business owners within the tourism industry. These strong relationships have been instrumental in fostering community confidence and collaboration.

Detective Chief Inspector Kehoe provided instrumental support to the family of a missing Belgian backpacker. He has planned, commanded and led policing operations at Bluesfest, Splendour in the Grass and Falls Festival in the Byron Shire from 2018 to 2024. He responded to community needs in the Byron Shire during the 2019 bushfires and 2022 floods and led public order management at the NSW and QLD border, Byron Bay, and Mullumbimby during COVID-19 restrictions. Detective Chief Inspector Kehoe has dedicated 38 years of distinguished service to the community, marked by outstanding performance, quality, and significant contribution to the development of the NSW Police Force.

Emergency Services Medal (ESM)
New South Wales
Ms Tracey Sabrina Hare-Boyd, Balgowlah 

For distinguished service as a member of an Australian emergency service.

Ms Tracey Hare-Boyd has dedicated her surf lifesaving career to providing exemplary frontline, operational, and leadership support within the Sydney Northern Beaches Branch (SNB) and at a national level as the current Chair of Education for Surf Life Saving Australia. Ms Hare-Boyd’s meritorious service spans a wide range of frontline and senior leadership roles, including leading the review and implementation of critical training initiatives such as Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA) awards in bronze medallion, patrol captain, and inflatable rescue boat courses.

Throughout her tenure, Ms Hare-Boyd has demonstrated unwavering dedication, commitment, and passion for surf lifesaving, contributing significantly to the operational excellence of SNB services and the safety of SNB communities. Her roles have included trainer, assessor, facilitator, patrol captain, duty officer, after hours duty officer, as well as various executive positions at both club and branch levels.

Serving over 2,300 volunteer patrol hours and countless additional hours in education, administration, and after-hours emergency response, Ms Hare-Boyd exemplifies commitment to her colleagues, the community, and the development of surf life savers nationwide. In her capacity as a surf lifesaving SNB duty officer and after-hours call-out duty officer, Ms Hare-Boyd has been instrumental in coordinating and responding to numerous critical incidents across the Sydney Northern Beaches Branch, including major rescues, resuscitations, and search and rescue operations in collaboration with other emergency services. 

Over the past five years, Tracey has overseen more than 100 out-of-patrol-hour search and rescue operations, demonstrating  exceptional leadership.

In April 2022, Ms Hare-Boyd was a forward commander and coordinated two successful CPR rescues at Warriewood and North Palm Beach on the same day, providing leadership and support to these major incidents. Ms Hare-Boyd’s significant contributions to surf lifesaving, her extensive service in hazardous conditions, and her outstanding achievements highlight her distinguished career in surf lifesaving. 


2019: Pittwater's MP the Hon. Rob Stokes with Doug Menzies and Tracey Hare-Boyd, then Deputy President of Surf Life Saving Sydney Northern Beaches Branch- Life Membership presentation 

Worth Celebrating:

Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM)
New South Wales
Ms Denise Lynne Butcher, NSW

For distinguished service as a member of an Australian fire service.

Ms Denise Butcher commenced her career with Fire and Rescue New South Wales (FRNSW) on 15 March 1985. She was one of the first two female firefighters appointed to the service and remains the longest serving female firefighter in its history. Ms Butcher has served in a frontline operational capacity and currently works as a senior firefighter in the Alexandria Communications Centre, where she supports FRNSW crews across the state via emergency call-taking and radio coordination.

Her career has spanned four decades of continuous service in both hazardous frontline roles and critical communications functions. Ms Butcher entered the fire services at a time when no pathway existed for women in the profession. From the outset, she faced cultural barriers, including being made supernumerary and initially excluded from operational duties. Despite these challenges, Ms Butcher responded with professionalism, competence, and determination. Her quiet leadership and exceptional service over the past 40 years have shifted perceptions, raised standards, and forged a path for future generations of women in firefighting. Her service also included navigating restrictive and outdated maternity policies, contributing to longer-term cultural change and more inclusive practices.

Throughout her career, Ms Butcher has maintained the highest standards of integrity, reliability, and commitment. She is widely respected across the organisation as a quiet trailblazer who has consistently embodied the FRNSW values of respect, integrity, service, and courage. She has made a significant contribution to the safety and wellbeing of the community of New South Wales, both on the frontline and behind the scenes. Ms Butcher’s legacy lives not only in the historical significance of her appointment, but in the generations of firefighters who have followed her example of being committed to service, grounded in integrity, and shaped by the path she helped to clear.

On March 15 2025 Fire and Rescue NSW Senior Firefighter Denise Butcher made history as the longest-serving female firefighter at Fire and Rescue NSW.  Since joining in 1985, her dedication, passion, and strength have paved the way for so many who came after her.

At a special reception at Government House celebrating the 40th Anniversary of Women in FRNSW, SF Butcher was awarded her third clasp; a testament to her decades of service. 

Fire and Rescue NSW also recognised her former peers Senior Firefighter Heather Barnes, Station Officer Dawn Maynard, and Firefighter Alison Meehan, all of whom joined in the same year and helped shape the emergency service we are today.

Congratulations SF Denise Butcher on such an incredible milestone and achievement. 

SF Denise Lynne Butcher AFSM. Photo: FRNSW

Denise Butcher (nee Bryant) and Heather Barnes, Alexandria Training College, 21 May 1985. Photo: Museum of Fire Collection

 

2026 AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR AWARDS ANNOUNCED

2026 Australian of the Year – Katherine Bennell-Pegg (SA)

2026 Senior Australian of the Year – Professor Henry Brodaty AO (NSW)

2026 Young Australian of the Year – Nedd Brockmann (NSW)

2026 Australia’s Local Hero – Frank Mitchell (WA) 

Announced Sunday January 25 2026

The first Australian to qualify as an Astronaut under Australia’s own space program; a man whose family experience of dementia is reshaping care and prevention of the condition globally; a young man inspiring millions through ultra marathon running to help solve homelessness; and a Whadjuk-Yued Noongar man changing lives through training and jobs have been named as the 2026 Australian of the Year award recipients.

The Prime Minister, the Hon Anthony Albanese MP, announced the 2026 Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year, Young Australian of the Year and Australia’s Local Hero in a ceremony at the National Arboretum in Canberra this evening.

At the 66th Australian of the Year Awards announcement, the award recipients were presented with a handcrafted glass trophy, a traditional Indigenous coolamon and clap sticks.

The 2026 Australian of the Year is Astronaut, Katherine Bennell-Pegg.

Katherine Bennell-Pegg is making history as the first Australian to qualify as an astronaut under Australia’s space program, opening pathways for others to follow.

Katherine graduated from Basic Astronaut Training in 2024 as part of a class of six trained by the European Astronaut Centre in Germany, the first international candidate to do so. She was initially chosen for the program from a field of over 22,500 applicants. 

Katherine has harboured ambitions of becoming an astronaut since she was a young child. As a space engineer, she has advanced multiple space missions and technologies.

Alongside her career achievements, Katherine is an energetic champion for Australia’s space program, regularly presenting to audiences of schoolchildren and industry leaders to inspire the next generation and create new opportunities.

Katherine, 41, is a genuine trailblazer in Australia’s emerging space industry. With her determination and drive to succeed, she is a powerful example for young Australians.

2026 Australian of the Year – Katherine Bennell-Pegg (SA) and the Hon. Anthony Albanese, Prime Minister of Australia© NADC/Salty Dingo

The 2026 Senior Australian of the Year is dementia treatment pioneer, Professor Henry Brodaty AO.

Professor Henry Brodaty AO is transforming the diagnosis, care and prevention of dementia - improving countless lives, both in Australia and around the world.

In 1972, Henry’s father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease at just 52 years old. At that time, dementia was poorly understood and often ignored. People living with dementia and carers had little support and no pathway forward. His father’s experience catalysed a lifetime of work that not only revolutionised Henry’s own field of psychiatry, but also the lives of people living with dementia and their families. 

In 2012, Henry co-founded the Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing and led internationally significant research that enhanced the world’s understanding of risk and prevention. His large Maintain Your Brain trial demonstrated that straightforward, cost-effective, targeted interventions can profoundly delay onset and even prevent dementia.

Henry, 78, is a leader who has reshaped dementia care from every angle as he navigates toward a future where dementia is better treated and prevented.

2026 Senior Australian of the Year Professor Henry Brodaty's acceptance speech:

''As a one year old arriving in this wonderful country with Holocaust survivor parents, this honour is even more extraordinary. I am very grateful. 

I would like to dedicate this to all of us who are older and will, hopefully, become older. 

I especially dedicate the award to those affected by dementia and their families, to my father who died with dementia aged 59 and to my mother who was his carer.

His illness lead me:

  • to co founding and leading Alzheimer's Associations in New South Wales and Australia, now called Dementia Australia, and globally Alzheimer's Disease International now representing over 100 countries. 
  • And to becoming a clinician, an advocate and a researcher.

Dementia is a national health priority. It is our challenge. Over 430,000 Australians and over 1m family carers are touched by dementia. Costs exceed $18b. By mid-century these numbers will double!  

Our vision at the Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA) at the University of NSW is to live our full lifespan in good cognitive health. 

We can prevent almost half of the risk of dementia. Our randomised controlled trial, of an intensive online lifestyle coaching program demonstrated the best results yet in maintaining cognition worldwide. What’s more the program paid for itself in saving health costs. And we can do better!

People think more about their hair than what's underneath! 

We should treasure our brains just as we have our hearts. 

Australia has led the world in prevention. Consider HIV! Human papilloma virus! Smoking! Fewer deaths from heart disease! Skin cancer!

It’s a Yes-Brainer! Australians would benefit from a national healthy brain promotion program. We need the Slip Slop Slap of brain health. We need a whole of life approach. The earlier the better! 

There is hope for dementia!

As well as prevention there are new drugs for Alzheimer’s. New diagnostic tests. Better understanding of risk factors. More support for carers. Re-ablement or rehabilitation after a diagnosis. A philosophy of striving to live positively for many years. 

But there is also the reality of living with dementia and the challenge of traversing the complex terrain of care and services. A national scheme for dementia navigators - (think breast cancer nurses) - could ease the burden and save money.

There is so much we can do and must do. Innovation, research and planning are crucial.''

2026 Senior Australian of the Year – Professor Henry Brodaty AO (NSW) - Australian of the Year Awards 2026 © NADC/Salty Dingo

The 2026 Young Australian of the Year is ultramarathon runner for homelessness, Nedd Brockmann.

Nedd Brockmann, a then 23-year-old electrician from Forbes, had a goal – to run across Australia and inspire people to do more for themselves and the homeless.

Nedd’s concern for homelessness was sparked by his journey into TAFE every week where he saw too many people sleeping rough on Sydney's Eddy Avenue. He wanted to do something to highlight homelessness, its complexities and prove that it's solvable.

So, in 2022, he ran from Perth’s Cottesloe Beach to Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach, completing a 3,952km journey over 46 days, and becoming the fastest ever Australian to do so. Nedd, now 27, raised over $2.6 million from over 37,000 individual contributors.

He went on to start Nedd’s Uncomfortable Challenge in 2024, and with his team, has raised over $8 million for those experiencing homelessness. 

He also raises funds for his charity partner, Mobilise, to change lives through innovative programs to reduce the number of people sleeping rough.

2026 Young Australian of the Year – Nedd Brockmann (NSW) - Australian of the Year Awards 2026 © NADC/Salty Dingo

Australia’s Local Hero for 2026 is Indigenous construction leader, Frank Mitchell.

Frank Mitchell, 43, a proud Whadjuk-Yued Noongar man, is co-director of Wilco Electrical and co-founder/director of Kardan, Baldja and Bilyaa in the trades and construction industry.

Frank’s commitment to change was shaped by early lived experiences of suicide and the loss of best friends. 

As a young single father, being offered an electrical apprenticeship felt like a profound opportunity. When he became a business owner in 2015, he pledged to create the same opportunities for Mob. 

Starting with just eight staff and $1.5 million turnover, Frank and his partners have created over 70 Aboriginal upskilling positions in the electrical and construction industry, including 30 electrical apprenticeships and awarding over $11 million to Aboriginal subcontractors. 

Today, all four companies collectively employ over 200 full-time staff. His story embodies a vision that integrates cultural values with business leadership, strengthening his ties to community while reshaping the construction industry and creating lasting impact and social justice.    

2026 Local Hero Frank Mitchell's acceptance speech:

''I acknowledge that we are on Ngunnawal Ngambri Country and that sovereignty was never ceded. I pay my respects to Elders past and present and honour the responsibilities that come with standing on Country. Always was, always will be Aboriginal land.

When I began the journey that led me here, I was driven by lived experiences of suicide and loss. Over time, I have come to understand that what drives my work is something much bigger than my own story.

When I started my apprenticeship, my life shifted. I was a single dad who had moved to the city from a small rural community. I had scraped through school, was grieving the deaths of two close friends, and felt disconnected from who I was as an Aboriginal man living on colonised land. My uncle offered me a lifeline through a mature-age apprenticeship.

I now understand that work and education are not just about income or career progression. They are determinants of health and wellbeing. Completing my apprenticeship gave me pride, hope, and stability. It gave me the foundation to provide for my family and to grow into leadership within my community.

I wanted to pass that opportunity on to other mob who, like me, did not yet believe they had what it takes to start an apprenticeship, buy a home, connect to community, or lead.

My story is not unique. For some people, opportunity and belief might be enough. For mob, it is more complex. We are educated within systems that do not believe in us, that deny the depth of this land and our histories. We constantly navigate racism, stereotypes, and the ongoing impacts of colonisation.

I used to advocate for organisations to simply give Aboriginal people a job. But opportunity alone is not enough. If workplaces are not culturally safe, mob may survive, but they are unlikely to thrive.

Wilco and Kardan have worked to be places where mob are given a chance and feel safe. It does not always work, because people’s lives are complex and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. But when it does work, the outcomes are powerful.

What comes next is strengthening how we support mob’s social and emotional wellbeing – at the individual level, within workplaces, and through cultural connection. For me, thriving and leading has come from connecting with Elders, community, and culture. I am learning what it means to be a good ancestor. Our old people have always known this as reciprocity.

If Australians can embrace this ancient cycle of responsibility and reciprocity, we can build a better future – for mob, for this country, and for those who come after us.''

2026 Australia’s Local Hero – Frank Mitchell (WA) - Australian of the Year Awards 2026© NADC/Salty Dingo

National Australia Day Council CEO Mr Mark Fraser AO CVO congratulated the 2026 Australian of the Year Award recipients.

“The 2026 Australians of the Year are visionaries. Their motivations and goals go far beyond their own interests and achievements. Rather, they are driven by outcomes which benefit others,” said Mr Fraser.

“Katherine is forging new frontiers for Australians in space engineering, research and exploration. Her work is shaping the future not only in space, but in everyday life through the impact of research and development. She leads by example, openly sharing her story to inspire the next generation and reminding us all of the power of a dream, and where determination can lead.

“Henry has turned his personal experience into a lifelong commitment to improving outcomes for people living with dementia. His research is expanding understanding of the condition and identifying ways to prevent and delay its onset. His work will benefit not just those affected today, but all of us in the future.

“Nedd, confronted by how easily people can experience homelessness and the growing scale of the problem, chose not to look away. Instead, he took action and he hasn’t stopped since. He continues to run for change, finding new ways to help end homelessness, and engaging others to join the fight along the way. He is a young man on a clear mission to challenge us all to make a lasting difference.

“Frank’s lived experience has inspired him to pay it forward and create opportunities for others. His approach to building an industry-led community that combines training, employment and culture is delivering stronger futures for people who need them most and demonstrates what can be achieved through collaboration and social inclusion.”

Katherine Bennell-Pegg, Professor Henry Brodaty AO, Nedd Brockmann and Frank Mitchell will attend the National Australia Day Citizenship and Flag Raising Ceremony in Canberra on Australia Day morning, Monday 26 January 2026. They will then travel to Sydney for the Australia Day Live concert at the Opera House.

AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR AWARDS PROCESS

Each year, public nominations for the Australian of the Year Awards close on 31 July. State and territory nominees are then selected from these public submissions. State and territory recipients are announced at events during November. These state and territory award recipients then become the national finalists, with the national awards announced on 25 January the following year. 

If there's someone you think should be considered for the 2027 Australian of the Year Awards, you can nominate them now at australianoftheyear.org.au

SPECIAL HONOURS LIST FOR BONDI

During the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards announcement broadcast, the Prime Minister acknowledged the extraordinary acts of many in the community in response to the Bondi attack and the Special Honours List for Bondi currently being prepared.  

Visit: Attack on Bondi Chanukah event: Support Services available - Online Condolence Book - One Mitzvah - Requesting Privacy - Jack Hibbert of Narrabeen, Fundraiser