June 9th 2024.
In this year's King's Birthday honours list, two former long-serving Labor premiers, Daniel Andrews and Mark McGowan, were honored for their contributions to their respective states. Both were appointed as Companions of the Order of Australia, the highest award in the order. This year's honours list included 737 people from various fields, including incoming governor-general Samantha Mostyn, cricket legend Glenn McGrath, the late opposition leader Simon Crean, and TV presenter Hamish Blake.
Daniel Andrews, who served as the premier of Victoria for nine years before resigning last year, was recognized for his outstanding service to the people and Parliament of Victoria. His achievements in public health, policy and regulatory reform, and infrastructure development were also acknowledged. Similarly, Mark McGowan, who ended his successful six-year tenure as premier of Western Australia in 2023, was honored for his eminent service to the people and Parliament of Western Australia, as well as his contributions to public health, education, and international trade relations.
During the pandemic, both former premiers received both strong support and criticism for their strict lockdown and border closure measures. However, their efforts were recognized and celebrated in the honours list. Governor-General David Hurley congratulated all the recipients, stating that while some may be well-known, the majority are hardworking individuals who make a difference in their communities.
Hurley also expressed his gratitude on behalf of all Australians for the recipients' service and congratulated them on their well-deserved recognition. This was Hurley's last honours list as governor-general, and his successor, businesswoman Samantha Mostyn, was among the awardees for her achievements in various fields, including social justice, gender equity, reconciliation, and environmental sustainability.
The late Simon Crean, a former federal Labor leader and union figure, was also recognized as a Companion of the Order of Australia. He dedicated over 20 years of his life to federal parliament and served in the cabinets of four prime ministers. However, he was most known for his strong stance against Australia's involvement in the War in Iraq during his time as opposition leader.
Aside from politics, former Australian cricket star Glenn McGrath was honored with the Officer of the Order of Australia for his efforts in raising awareness and funding for breast cancer treatment through his foundation, established with his late wife Jane. Along with his impressive record as a fast bowler, McGrath was also acknowledged for his services as an international cricket coach.
Other notable awardees included three-time AFL premiership winner Bachar Houli for his contributions to the Islamic community and promoting multiculturalism, as well as comedians Hamish Blake and Jimmy Rees for their service to the arts and the community. The Order of Australia allows anyone to nominate deserving individuals for an award, and the public is encouraged to do so through the official website.
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