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The Australian Honours system celebrates
individuals who stand above the everyday and mark the extraordinary
in our society. Awards are announced twice a year, on Australia
Day and also the Queen's Birthday.
What is the Order of Australia?
Australia established its own honours system the Order of Australia
on 14 February 1975 'for the purpose of according recognition to
Australian citizens and other persons for achievement or for meritorious
service'. Prior to this time, Australians were honoured under the
British or Imperial Honours system.
There are four levels of awards within the Order of Australia to
recognise commitment and achievement. These are:
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Companion
(AC) for eminent achievement and merit of the highest degree
in service to Australia or to humanity at large; |
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Officer (AO) for
distinguished service of a high degree to Australia or to
humanity at large; |
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Member (AM) for
service in a particular locality or field of activity or to
a particular group; |
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Medal (OAM) for
service worthy of a particular recognition. |
Who can be nominated for an award within the Order of Australia?
Any individual or organisation may nominate an Australian citizen for an
award in the Order of Australia. The Order operates on the principles of
independence and freedom from political patronage. Nominations are received
throughout the year and usually take between 18 months and 2 years to
process.
Nominations are assessed in Canberra by the Council for the Order of
Australia, which meets twice-yearly to consider all nominations and make
recommendations to the Governor-General on who should receive awards in the
Order of Australia. The Council also recommends the level of award.
For further information check
out www.itsanhonour.gov.au or call the Honours Secretariat's 24 hour
toll-free number 1800 552 275
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