Australia Day 2025 Honours: A Celebration of Queensland's Finest

The 2025 Australia Day Honours list shines a spotlight on 101 extraordinary Queenslanders, recognizing their remarkable contributions to the state and nation. From pioneering scientists to dedicated community volunteers, these individuals embody the very best of the Queensland spirit. Their achievements, spanning various fields, serve as an inspiration to us all.

Eminent Service and Distinguished Achievements

The awards showcase a diverse array of exceptional achievements. Scientia Professor Megan Davis AC received recognition for her eminent service to law, social justice, and advocacy for Indigenous people’s rights. Her commitment to social justice and tireless work have advanced the cause of Indigenous rights on both the national and international stages. Her contributions to the Uluru Statement from the Heart and her involvement in drafting the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples underscore her profound impact. Similarly, the Honourable Justice James Edelman AC was recognized for his eminent service to the law and judiciary, legal education, and mentorship.

Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) honors went to several notable figures. Laurie Lawrence's distinguished service to water safety education and swimming as a high-performance coach was celebrated, while Professor John Fraser's dedication to medicine as an intensive care physician and surgeon, and to global critical care research, earned him the same prestigious honor. Professor Fraser's innovative work, including refining a method of keeping a heart “alive” outside the body for 12 hours, has revolutionized organ transplantation and saved countless lives worldwide. This achievement is a testament to his dedication and expertise, significantly enhancing the success rates of heart transplants globally. His work exemplifies the spirit of innovation and commitment to advancing medical science that defines this year’s Australia Day Honours recipients.

Community Service and Dedication

The list also includes numerous recipients of the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), which recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to their communities. Among them are Lloyd and Sure Clarke, honored for their dedication to supporting victims of domestic violence; and Australia’s youngest Olympic gold medalist, Arisa Trew, who was also awarded an OAM for her achievements in skateboarding.

Beyond individual achievements, the awards highlight the collective efforts of those who work tirelessly to improve the lives of others. The 101 recipients represent a wide range of professions and backgrounds, reflecting the diverse tapestry of talent within Queensland. The Queensland's recipients embody the very best of the Queensland spirit, and were announced by the Governor-General Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC.

Posthumous Awards and Military Honours

Of the 101 Queensland recipients, five posthumous awards were given, acknowledging individuals whose contributions, even in death, continue to resonate and inspire. Additionally, 11 military awards were presented for distinguished and conspicuous service, honoring the bravery and dedication of those who serve in the Australian Defence Force. These awards underscore the broader scope of the Australia Day Honours, recognizing contributions across diverse sectors and professions.

A Celebration of Achievement and Resilience

Premier David Crisafulli expressed pride in the 101 recipients, stating that they embody resilience, generosity, hard work, and community service. He emphasized their contributions inspire all Queenslanders and thanked them for their remarkable achievements. The recipients will receive their awards at an Investiture Ceremony in the coming months, conducted either by the Governor-General or Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland. The complete list is available on the Governor-General’s website. The formal investiture ceremonies will be held in the coming months, providing a fitting occasion to celebrate these remarkable achievements.

Beyond Queensland: National Recognition

The spirit of recognition extended beyond Queensland’s borders. Tasmania, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory also celebrated their own outstanding citizens with Australia Day honors. In Tasmania, Premier Jeremy Rockliff expressed pride in the diverse range of achievements honored, recognizing contributions in fields such as youth services, the environment, arts, emergency services, and health. Similarly, Darwin celebrated its new citizens and recognized individuals who make exceptional contributions to the community. The City of Darwin's Australia Day ceremony included performances, a flag-raising ceremony, and the announcement of Citizen of the Year Awards.

The Crucial Role of Doctors

The Australian Medical Association (AMA) congratulated doctors recognized in the 2025 Australia Day Honours, emphasizing their crucial role in advancing the health and well-being of the community. AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen highlighted the vital contributions of doctors to better healthcare and society. The AMA recognized several of its members, including Professor Allen Cheuk-Seng Cheng for his eminent service to medicine as an epidemiologist and to infectious and communicable disease research and education, and to national and international public health policy. Their contributions underscore the importance of the medical profession in shaping a healthy and thriving society. The recognition of these doctors highlights the profound impact of their dedication and expertise on improving health outcomes for individuals and communities across Australia.

UQ's Contribution to National Excellence

The University of Queensland (UQ) also celebrated its community members receiving Australia Day honors. Notable recipients included Professor John Fraser, awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia for his distinguished service to medicine and global critical care research; and Scientia Professor Megan Davis, who received the Companion of the Order of Australia, the nation’s highest civil honor. These accolades underscore the university's commitment to producing outstanding researchers and leaders in various fields. Their achievements showcase the impact of UQ's contribution to national excellence and highlight the transformative potential of higher education. Dr Catherine Lawrence also received an OAM for her service to higher education through her work with UQ’s Alumni Friends. The recognition extends to many other esteemed individuals connected to UQ. This is a testament to the university's role in fostering exceptional talent and contributions to society.

A Legacy of Service and Inspiration

The 2025 Australia Day Honours serve as a powerful reminder of the incredible contributions made by individuals across the nation. From dedicated community volunteers to pioneering researchers and acclaimed athletes, these individuals have shaped Australia into the vibrant, diverse, and thriving nation it is today. Their stories inspire us all to strive for excellence, contribute to our communities, and make a positive impact on the lives of others. The legacies of service and commitment exemplified by this year's recipients will undoubtedly inspire future generations of Australians to follow in their footsteps.