Several prominent South Australians were recognised in the highest tier of the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours, with former senator and gender equality advocate Natasha Stott Despoja among those appointed as Companions of the Order of Australia (AC).
Natasha received the honour for “eminent service to the prevention of domestic, family and sexual violence, to gender equity, and to the promotion of human rights and global systemic change.”
The former Australian Democrats leader has continued her advocacy work well beyond politics, serving as Commissioner of the South Australian Royal Commission into Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence, a member of the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women, and founding chair of Our Watch. She also remains closely connected to South Australia through her roles with The University of Adelaide and regular contributions as a columnist for The Advertiser.
Joining her in receiving the nation’s highest civilian honour was world-renowned South Australian mathematician Terence Tao, recognised for “eminent service to the mathematical sciences, to the global mathematics community, and to tertiary education and academia.”
Born in Adelaide and widely regarded as one of the world’s greatest living mathematicians, Terence currently serves as a professor at University of California, Los Angeles and is best known for winning the prestigious Fields Medal in 2006. His remarkable career includes more than 350 academic publications, numerous international awards, and influential work spanning pure mathematics, artificial intelligence and scientific research.
The King’s Birthday Honours also recognised leading figures from philanthropy, medicine and public service.
Victorian philanthropist Elisabeth Calvert-Jones was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia for her longstanding contributions to philanthropy, the arts, medical research, children and youth. Her work has supported organisations including the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, National Gallery of Victoria and the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.
Former Tasmanian premier Will Hodgman was honoured for his service to the people and Parliament of Tasmania, economic growth, law and public policy. Since leaving politics, Will has served as Australia’s High Commissioner to Singapore and continues to hold leadership positions across business and investment sectors.
Internationally respected virologist William David Rawlinson was recognised for eminent service to medical science, clinical research, education and public health. William played a significant role in Australia’s response to infectious diseases and COVID-19, while contributing extensively to global research and health policy.
The honours form part of the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours List announced by Sam Mostyn, who described recipients as Australians whose achievements and service help shape the nation through contributions across community, public service, science, academia, the arts and sport.
In her address, the Governor-General encouraged Australians to continue nominating people in their communities whose work often goes unrecognised, noting that the honours system should reflect the diversity, connection and achievements that define modern Australia.
