Defence personnel awarded Australia Day honours and awards

Seventy-nine Defence personnel received Australian Honours and Awards this Australia Day, acknowledging their significant contribution to our country.

There were 25 Order of Australia recipients and 54 Military Award recipients from across the Australian Defence Force.

In support of Australia Day, the ADF has provided spectacular displays in and around Sydney Harbour and Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra.

Commander Australian Fleet, Rear Admiral Christopher Smith, AM, CSM, said Defence was proud to join in Australia Day activities across the country.

“Our sailors, soldiers and aviators are excited to strengthen their relationship with the community through these events,” said Rear Admiral Smith. 

The Roulettes flypast over Sydney Harbour was one of many performed by Air Force across the country.

Earlier in the day, a Royal Australian Navy MH-60R Seahawk helicopter with the Australian National Flag underslung flew over the harbour and along the beaches to the north and south of the city.

In Canberra, ADF personnel supported the Citizenship and Flag Raising Ceremony to welcome the newest Australian citizens.

The ceremony was marked with a Royal Australian Navy MH-60R Seahawk flying the Australian National Flag underslung, Army firing a 21-Gun Salute, and Royal Australian Air Force E-7A Wedgetail conducting a fly over.

Media note
Access the list of recipients available here: Australia Day 2025 Honours List | Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia

Access stories of recipients here: https://defence.gov.au/news-events

Media can access imagery/vision of the day’s events at: https://images.defence.gov.au/S20250015