Honours and Awards
Honours recognise outstanding achievers and those who have contributed significantly to their community.
The honours system in Australia was established in 1975 with the creation of the Order of Australia, the Australian Bravery Decorations and the National Medal. Prior to this (and for coinciding period afterwards), Australians were honoured by awards in the British Imperial honours system.
Today there are 53 awards in the Australian honours system. Imperial honours are no longer awarded to Australians, with the exception of those awarded as personal gifts from the Queen.
Anyone can nominate an Australian citizen for an honour.
The three organisations with primary responsibility for administering Australia’s system of honours are:
- Honours Secretariat, Government House, Canberra
- Awards and Culture Branch, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet
- Directorate of Honours and Awards, Department of Defence
Western Australia is represented on the Australian Bravery Decorations Council by the Chief of Protocol. The Council meets twice yearly to consider nominations for brave conduct.
For information on the Australian honours system, or to nominate an individual or group for an award, visit the Australian Government website - It’s an Honour.