In a few days the Governor-General will be announcing the 2020 Australia Day Honours List. In the lead up to the Governor-General’s announcement, it is timely to reflect on the Australian Honours system, which recognises individuals for their outstanding contribution to our nation.

The Australian honours systems is our way of saying thank you to those who have gone above and beyond for our community.

The honours system should reflect the true diversity of our multicultural population. Last Australia Day, of the 1,127 Order of Australia recipients, 213 recipients were born overseas, and other recipients identified their ancestral heritage from more than 30 countries. Both young and old were honoured - the youngest recipient being 26 years old and the oldest, 99. More women than ever before were also recognised.

While it is good news that the number of women being nominated and receiving Australian honours has continued to increase, women are still underrepresented. We aim to achieve equal representation of men and women in the honours system.

The Australian honours system encourages citizens to nominate individuals who make an extraordinary contribution to our diverse and vibrant country.

Let’s make future Australia Day lists even more representative. Anyone can nominate, at any time. If you know an Australian making a difference, please nominate them now at pmc.gov.au/nominate.