Australia Day Honours 2025: A Nation's Gratitude

The 2025 Australia Day Honours list, marking the 50th anniversary of the Australian Honours System, has unveiled a diverse array of recipients whose exceptional contributions have shaped the nation. From Indigenous leaders who championed land rights to tireless advocates for domestic violence victims, the honorees represent the best of Australia, embodying care, kindness, respect and love.

Celebrating Indigenous Leadership and Legacy

The late Galarrwuy Yunupiŋu, a giant of Australia's land rights movement, received the highest honor, the Companion of the Order of Australia, posthumously. Born near Yirrkala, Dr. Yunupiŋu’s leadership in establishing and leading the Northern Land Council made him a powerful advocate for Indigenous interests across the country. He spearheaded calls for treaty and delivered the pivotal Barunga Statement to the Australian government. His daughter, Binmila Yunupiŋu, described him as a "born leader," a ceremonial leader of the highest degree, holding sacred responsibilities within his clan. Dr. Yunupiŋu's brother, Djawa Yunupiŋu, poignantly noted that his brother was "a Yolngu man, an Australian — being born from the very bones of the country." His passing in 2023 did not diminish the profound impact of his life's work, an impact now nationally recognized.

Advocating for Change: The Clarke Family's Unwavering Dedication

Sue and Lloyd Clarke, parents of slain Queensland woman Hannah Clarke, received an Order of Australia Medal for their tireless efforts in raising awareness about domestic violence and supporting victims. After the tragic loss of their daughter and grandchildren in 2020, they established the Small Steps 4 Hannah foundation, a testament to their commitment. Mr. Clarke, initially unfamiliar with the concept of coercive control, highlighted their crucial educational role in spreading awareness, aiming to prevent similar tragedies. Their dedication has led to the introduction of coercive control legislation in Queensland and continues through their advocacy for national change, emphasizing the critical role of education in combating this scourge.

Sporting Excellence and Water Safety Champion

Laurie Lawrence, the legendary swimming coach behind countless Australian sporting triumphs, has been appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia. Beyond his celebrated career, Mr. Lawrence's decades-long dedication to water safety through his Kids Alive, Do The Five campaign stands as his greatest legacy. His simple yet effective message — 'Kids alive, do the five, fence the pool, shut the gate' — has saved countless lives. At 83, he remains actively involved, continuing to teach children to swim and champion the importance of pool safety, a testament to his enduring commitment.

Celebrating Cultural Preservation and Innovation

Margaret Soo Koo, renowned as Margaret Lee, was recognized with an Order of Australia Medal for her dedication to preserving and sharing the ancient art of embroidery. Beginning her journey at nine, Ms. Koo's six decades of practice, teaching, and authoring four books have cemented her position as a world-renowned artist and educator. She sees embroidery not merely as a craft, but as a conduit for inner peace and a means of expressing cultural heritage, inspiring the next generation of embroiderers. Her intricate works, often mistaken for photographs, showcase the beauty and skill of this traditional technique.

Arts, Advocacy, and a Voice for Disability

Julia Hales, a Perth actor and writer, received a Medal of the Order of Australia for her exceptional contributions to the arts and her unwavering dedication to empowering people with disabilities. Her play, You Know We Belong Together, has won multiple awards and had an international impact. Ms. Hales' work transcends artistic achievements; she uses her platform to amplify the voices of individuals with disabilities and provide them with opportunities to share their stories and projects with the world.

Recycling Revolution: Transforming Waste into Resources

Veena Sahajwalla, a celebrated engineer and inventor, was honored with the Medal of the Order of Australia for revolutionizing recycling. Her groundbreaking work includes launching the world's first e-waste micro-factory, transforming waste products from old electronics into valuable resources. Professor Sahajwalla's invention of a method for repurposing carbon from shredded tires in steel production further underscores her commitment to environmental sustainability and economic progress, highlighting the potential of industry partnerships in bringing innovative research to life.

A Trailblazer for Indigenous Rights: Emma Lee's Enduring Contributions

Trawlwulwuy woman Emma Lee OAM, an internationally recognized expert on Indigenous land and sea management, received a Medal of the Order of Australia. Her prolific research, spanning diverse fields from democracy to tourism, reflects a commitment to her community and the preservation of cultural heritage. Professor Lee’s work emphasizes collaborative efforts within Aboriginal communities and highlights the establishment of commercial fisheries promoting cultural wild catch, focusing on abalone, ensuring strong working opportunities for young Aboriginal Tasmanians.

From Tiles to Titles: Bob Jackman's Scrabble Success

Bob Jackman, a dedicated Scrabble player, was honored with a Medal of the Order of Australia. His passion for the game began in the 1970s and blossomed into a professional career following a life-changing accident. Mr. Jackman, now president of the New South Wales Scrabble Club, has organized numerous competitions and emphasized Scrabble's educational value, highlighting the wealth of knowledge embedded within the game. His award brings attention to the organized Scrabble community, showcasing the game as more than just a pastime.

Honoring Excellence in Journalism: A Tribute to Dedicated Professionals

The 2025 Australia Day Honours also recognized excellence in Australian journalism, honoring veterans like Peter Kennedy, a long-time ABC reporter, and Kelli Underwood OAM, a celebrated sports journalist. Their careers exemplify dedication, often working long hours with limited recognition, providing crucial information to the public. Their awards serve as a tribute to all journalists who work tirelessly to inform and engage communities across Australia.

A Tapestry of Achievement: Weaving a Brighter Future

The 2025 Australia Day Honours list showcases a vibrant tapestry of exceptional achievements and unwavering dedication. These individuals, from diverse backgrounds and fields, have significantly contributed to the nation’s progress and prosperity. Their stories inspire us to strive for excellence, promote community well-being, and work towards building a brighter future for all Australians. The dedication and passion demonstrated by these recipients serve as a reminder that every contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant impact. The remarkable stories presented in this year's list are sure to leave readers feeling both inspired and profoundly grateful. The future is bright, strengthened by the contributions of such remarkable individuals.