Australia Day honours recognise notable contributions to education, health and sport

844 people have been be recognised in this year's Australia Day Honours list, including those involved in the response to the 2019/20 Bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Four people have received the highest honour this year, the Companion of the Order of Australia, including former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and record holding tennis Grand Slam champion Margaret Court.

The honour to Court, whose status now matches that former male tennis stars Roy Emerson and Rod Laver, has provoked widespread condemnation as a result of her more recent opposition to same-sex marriage.

Court's honour makes no mention of her religious views, stating its presentation is based on here "eminent service to tennis as an internationally acclaimed player and record holding grand slam champion, and as a mentor of young sportspersons."

Overall fewer women are being honoured than in previous years, with female representation dropping to 36.8% of new recipients, after more than 40% of those appointed to the Order of Australia in 2020 were women.

Officer of the Order of Australia (AO)
Former Socceroo Tim Cahill for services to football and charitable organisations.

Cahill, who scored Australia’s first goal at a FIFA World Cup, said his work with UNICEF and Heartbeat of Football, as well as his career writing children’s books, had been among the most rewarding things he had done since retiring in 2019.

Cricket great Greg Chappell has been recognised not only for his contribution to the sport but his commitment to ending youth homelessness through his charity, The Chappell Foundation.

Horse trainer Gai Waterhouse.

Member of the Order of Australia (AM)
Retired footballer and commentator-turned refugee advocate Craig Foster.

Former BCiB Australian Jackaroo vice-captain and World Champion lawns bowls star Karen Murphy.

Jill Smith, General Manager of the Geelong Performing Arts Centre.

Dr Carden Wallace has been recognised for significant service to marine science, and to museums and galleries.

The Queensland Museum Emeritus Principal Scientist has authored or co-authored more than 130 scientific publications and undertaken significant research into reefs, corals and fossil corals.

Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM)
Teacher Merrin Ross for services to performing arts.

Image: Margaret Court is honoured at the 2020 Australian Open with a special Tennis Australia trophy presented by Rod Laver.