Government House Media Release

25 January 2025

Celebrating the Outstanding Achievements of Territorians on the 2025 Australia Day Honours List

In a remarkable celebration of excellence and service, 18 inspiring Territorians have been recognised in the 2025 Australia Day Honours List. This year holds even greater significance as it marks the 50th anniversary of the Order of Australia Awards, a milestone of national pride to be officially celebrated on 14 February.

At the pinnacle of the awards, the late Mr Galarrwuy Yunupingu AC has been posthumously elevated to the prestigious rank of Companion of the Order of Australia (AC). This rare and highly distinguished accolade recognises his extraordinary and eminent service to First Nations Peoples, leaving a profound legacy that continues to inspire the nation.

The honours list also includes an impressive range of achievements:

One Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in the General Division
One Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division
Three Medals of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division
One Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the Military Division
Three Conspicuous Service Crosses (CSC)
Four Public Service Medals (PSM)
Two Australian Police Medals (APM)
One Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM)
One Ambulance Service Medal (ASM)

His Honour, Professor the Honourable Hugh Heggie AO PSM, Administrator of the Northern Territory, expressed heartfelt congratulations and immense pride in the recipients.

“These extraordinary Territorians have demonstrated unwavering dedication, passion, and excellence in their fields, leaving an indelible mark on our community and beyond,” His Honour said. “From advancing social justice and environmental stewardship to exemplary contributions in public service, emergency management, and defence, their achievements shine brightly as a beacon of inspiration for us all.

“It is especially poignant to celebrate these honours during the 50th anniversary of the Order of Australia Awards – a powerful reminder of the legacy of service and excellence these accolades represent. We are deeply proud of each recipient and the positive impact they’ve had on our Territory and our nation.”

His Honour also urged Territorians to consider nominating others for future recognition.

“The Order of Australia is our nation’s highest honour, and its recipients are nominated by their peers. If you know someone whose extraordinary contributions deserve recognition, take the time to nominate them. Together, we can continue to celebrate the incredible talent, passion, and service of our fellow Territorians.”

This momentous occasion is not just a celebration of individual achievement but a testament to the Territory’s rich tapestry of leadership, resilience, and service. To all recipients, congratulations on this well-deserved recognition, you have made the Territory proud.”

Recipients this year are:

Appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) in the General Division

The late Mr Galarrwuy Yunupingu AC

Appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in the General Division

Ms Sally Sievers AO

Appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division

The Honourable Denis Burke AM

Awarded the Conspicuous Service Cross (CSC)

Commander Nikola Ford RAN CSC
Lieutenant Colonel Hugh Grogan CSC
Leading Seaman Ernesto De Joya Sanchez Jr CSC

Awarded the Public Service Medal (PSM)

Mr Robert Creek PSM
Mr Frederick Hunter PSM
Ms Cindy-Lee McDonald PSM
Mrs Susan Trimble PSM

Awarded the Australian Police Medal (APM)

Senior Sergeant Stefan Herold APM
Senior Constable Ian Spilsbury APM

Awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM)

Mr Jamie Seib AFSM

Awarded the Ambulance Service Medal (ASM)

Mr Antoni Kwiatkowski ASM

Awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division

Mrs Angelina Butler OAM
The late Mrs Roslyn Jones OAM
Mr Barry Lemcke OAM

Awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM (Mil)) in the Military Division

Chief Petty Officer Michael Cunnington OAM (Mil)

For a full list of recipients and citations, and information about making a nomination, visit https://www.gg.gov.au/australian-honours-and-awards