Former Australian Democrats leader Natasha Stott Despoja has been appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia in the King's Birthday honours, alongside former Tasmanian Liberal Premier Will Hodgman and mathematician Terence Tao. Stott Despoja, previously made an Officer of the Order in 2019, said she understood the enormity and generosity of receiving Australia's highest civilian honour.
Recognition for Family Violence Work
Stott Despoja is founding chair of Our Watch, the national organisation to prevent violence against women and children, and was commissioner of the South Australian royal commission into domestic, family and sexual violence. She shared the honour with many unnamed others, including those who entrusted her with their experiences during the commission.
She hopes the honour highlights the need to eliminate domestic, family and sexual violence and achieve gender equality, especially in places rolling back women's rights. The royal commission was an intense and haunting piece of work, but an extraordinary community effort that she hopes will change and save lives.
Other Notable Honours
Fran Kelly, former ABC Radio National host, was appointed an Officer of the Order for distinguished service to broadcast journalism, social justice, and LGBTQIA+ advocacy. Kelly, who hosted the breakfast program for 17 years, said it was special to be recognised for a job she loved and felt lucky to do.
Author and Nobel laureate Gerald Murnane, former premiers Morris Iemma and Robert Kerin, and Pat Turner of the Coalition of Peaks were also appointed Officers. The late paediatric allergist Katrina Jane Allen was recognised posthumously.
Christine Holgate, former Australia Post CEO, and children's author Ursula Dubosarsky were appointed Members of the Order. The late ABC broadcaster James Valentine was recommended for membership before his passing, with his insignia presented to his family last month.
Gender Balance and Diversity
Governor-General Sam Mostyn noted all recipients made exceptional contributions to Australia, shaping the nation through service in community, public service, industry, academia, science, arts, and sport. Gender balance rose by 5% from last year, but only 33% of recipients were women, largely due to the nomination process.
The honours list recognises 949 Australians across general and military divisions. The youngest recipient is Sarah Ward, 34, for social welfare work, and the oldest is Florence Drury, 106, for community service.
