27 Tasmanians have been recognised in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours List, with two former premiers among the standout names.
Former Liberal Premier Will Hodgman was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia, the nation’s highest civilian honour, for his service to the people and parliament.
Former Labor Premier David Bartlett was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia for his service as premier and his work in community health, sport, information technology and education.
The two former state leaders are among 23 Tasmanians, including 17 men and six women, named amongst 703 other Australians in the honours by Governor-General Sam Mostyn AC.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff said the recipients reflected the breadth of talent across the state.
“Our recipients reflect the remarkable talent, dedication and expertise across our State, spanning a broad range of sectors including politics, medicine, business, education, media, community, the arts and emergency services,” he said.
“Each Tasmanian recipient has made a lasting contribution to our State.”
“I congratulate these outstanding Tasmanians and thank them for their ongoing work in our community.”
The honours list spans philanthropists, paramedics, musicians and community leaders.
Eight Tasmanians were appointed Members of the Order of Australia.
They include Bruce Corbett for his work in emergency response organisations, Geoffrey Fader for business development and vocational training and Andrew Mulcahy for medical administration and anaesthetics.
Rosemary Rayfuse was recognised for her service to tertiary education and international and environmental law, while Frances Underwood was honoured for music education and the arts.
Terrence Roe was recognised for his service to veterans and their families, Damon Thomas for local government and law, and Brett Walker for social welfare and the law.
A further 13 Tasmanians received the Medal of the Order of Australia for contributions to their local communities.
They include Jane Edwards for service to the performing arts, Craig Leeson for media, Peter Dunphy for table tennis, Graeme Foale for sailing and John Pugh for swimming.
Janet Drummond and Robin McKendrick were both recognised for local government service, while Patricia Kent was honoured for her work in northwest Tasmania and Roger Viney for his service to Hobart’s community.
Steven Fisher was recognised for child welfare, David Hill for youth services, Gillian Forsyth for heritage conservation and Peter Muirhead for the maritime industry and tertiary education.
Four Tasmanians also received meritorious awards, including Tasmania Police Assistant Commissioner Doug Oosterloo, Margaret Chilcott, Michelle Izard and Garry White.
