Order of Australia

Order of Australia. It is the principal and most prestigious means of recognising outstanding achievement and service by Australian citizens. Established on 14 February 1975 by Elizabeth II on the advice of the Prime Minister, Gough Whitlam, it replaced the imperial British honours system for Australian civic awards. The order celebrates contributions across all fields of endeavour, from community service and the arts to science, sport, and public office.

History

The creation of the order marked a significant step in Australia's cultural independence, moving away from the previous reliance on British honours like the Order of the British Empire. Its establishment was a key initiative of the Whitlam government, with the Letters Patent signed by Queen Elizabeth II at Government House, Canberra. The first appointments were announced in the 1975 Queen's Birthday Honours list. Subsequent amendments to the order's constitution have been made, including the creation of a separate Military Division in 1991 to recognise service in the Australian Defence Force.

Grades

The order comprises four grades in the General Division and a parallel Military Division. The highest grade is Companion of the Order of Australia (AC), awarded for eminent achievement and merit of the highest degree in service to Australia or humanity. This is followed by Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for distinguished service of a high degree, and Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for service in a particular locality or field. The fourth level is the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service worthy of particular recognition. Appointments as Companion and Officer entitle recipients to use the title 'The Honourable'.

Insignia

The insignia design is based on the golden wattle, Australia's national floral emblem. The badge for Companions features a citrine-centred disc with the Southern Cross and two branches of golden wattle, surmounted by the Crown of St Edward. The ribbon is blue with a central band of golden wattle designs. The design was created by Stuart Devlin, the official goldsmith to Elizabeth II. The insignia for the Military Division is distinguished by a gold-plated silver star with the addition of two crossed swords.

Appointment process

Appointments are made by the Monarch of Australia, acting on advice from the Governor-General, who is the order's Chancellor. Nominations are considered by the Council for the Order of Australia, an independent body chaired by the Governor-General and including community representatives. The council provides recommendations to the Governor-General, who then forwards them to Government House. Appointments are typically announced on Australia Day and the King's Birthday.

Notable recipients

Prominent Companions include pioneering cardiac surgeon Victor Chang, Nobel Prize-winning immunologist Peter Doherty, and former Chief Justice of the High Court of Australia, Murray Gleeson. Distinguished Officers encompass figures like author Tim Winton, opera singer Joan Sutherland, and cricket legend Donald Bradman. Notable Members include conservationist Steve Irwin, actor Hugh Jackman, and scientist Fiona Wood. The Medal has been awarded to countless community volunteers, local sports coaches, and emergency service personnel.

Controversies and reforms

The order has faced periodic controversies, often surrounding political appointments or perceptions of a 'mates' club'. Significant scrutiny followed the 1992 appointment of former Queensland Premier Joh Bjelke-Petersen. Major reforms were implemented following the 1995 review by the Committee of Review of Australian Honours and Awards, which recommended stricter transparency. More recently, the 2020 review led by former PM&C Secretary Martin Parkinson resulted in changes to improve diversity and integrity, including the termination of the controversial Australian honours secretariat.