Australia’s King’s Birthday Honours 2026 have recognised 949 Australians, with well-known figures including Christine Holgate, Rove McManus and the late James Valentine named among recipients across business, media, science, politics, philanthropy and community service.
The annual honours list is one of Australia’s most significant public recognition moments, celebrating people whose work has shaped national life. This year’s list includes 703 recipients in the General Division of the Order of Australia, with the youngest recipient aged 34 and the oldest aged 106.
Five Australians received the country’s highest honour, the Companion of the Order of Australia. They include philanthropist Janet Calvert-Jones, former Democrats leader and gender equality advocate Natasha Stott Despoja, former Tasmanian premier William Hodgman, senior virologist and infectious diseases expert Professor William Rawlinson, and internationally renowned mathematician Terence Tao.
Christine Holgate, chief executive of Team Global Express and former Australia Post boss, was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to business. Her recognition comes years after the Australia Post Cartier watches controversy, with an independent investigation later clearing her of wrongdoing. Holgate said she felt honoured and humbled, while crediting mentors, colleagues and frontline workers for helping shape her leadership.
Rove McManus was also appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for service to broadcast media, entertainment and the community. The comedian and television presenter, known for his long career in Australian television and stand-up, said the honour recognised the value of making people feel better through entertainment.
One of the most emotional honours went to James Valentine, the broadcaster, musician and children’s author who was recognised shortly before his death from cancer. Valentine, a familiar voice on ABC radio and a former member of the band Models, was honoured for service to media, music and children’s literature.
Natasha Stott Despoja received her Companion honour for work in family violence prevention, gender equity and human rights. She has served as Australia’s ambassador for Women and Girls and on the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women.
Janet Calvert-Jones, daughter of Dame Elisabeth Murdoch and sister of Rupert Murdoch, was recognised for decades of philanthropy supporting medical research, children’s health, the arts, public gardens, the Good Friday Appeal, the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute and Taralye.
The honours also recognised leading media and public figures. Fran Kelly received an Officer of the Order of Australia for journalism and advocacy for equality, social justice and the LGBTQIA+ community. Edwina McCann, editorial director of Vogue Australia, Vogue Living and GQ Australia, was honoured for service to journalism, arts governance and fashion.
Former Liberal MP and medical researcher Dr Katie Allen received a posthumous Officer of the Order of Australia for her work in paediatric allergy research, gastroenterology and public service. Her medical career helped improve understanding of childhood food allergies before she entered federal parliament.
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The official Australian honours system recognises people who have made sustained and significant contributions to the country. Readers can verify honours information through the Australian Honours Search Facility.
This year’s list shows how national service can come through many paths: scientific discovery, public leadership, journalism, advocacy, philanthropy, entertainment, medicine and local community work.
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