Among those recognised in recent years is former Cobram resident Peter Sutton, who received the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2025 and is now a member of the Order of Australia Association.
“The Order of Australia recognises Australians who have made a positive contribution to Australia,” he said.
“These contributions can be in any capacity, and recipients have been awarded for outstanding contributions to different fields.”
The honours system includes several levels of recognition: Companion of the Order (AC), Officer of the Order (AO), Member of the Order (AM) and the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).
Mr Sutton said anyone could nominate someone for recognition, with the process remaining confidential throughout.
“The nominee is not informed or approached for information during the process, which is sensible in the event of an unsuccessful nomination,” he said.
While deceased individuals cannot be nominated, awards can still be granted posthumously if the person was alive when the nomination was submitted.
Nominators are required to provide at least three referees, including contact details and email addresses.
The Order of Australia is administered by the Honours Secretariat within the Governor-General’s office, with awards announced twice a year — on Australia Day and the King’s Birthday.
Successful recipients can choose to receive their award at a ceremony conducted by either the governor-general or their state governor.
Mr Sutton said he had personally nominated more than 40 individuals over the years, with 12 nominations proving successful.
“There are many outstanding members of our community,” he said.
“Consider nominating them.”
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