The King’s Birthday 2025 Honours list has just been released! It honors an incredibly diverse group of Australians who have made outstanding contributions to the community. Among the honorees are renowned figures in the arts and politics, including Wendy McCarthy, Phillip Adams, Scott Morrison, Baz Luhrmann, and Catherine Martin. Some 830 Australians will be honoured this year, highlighting the depth of talent and commitment across the country.
Wendy McCarthy will be made a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC). This honor serves as an acknowledgement of her lifetime activism on behalf of many causes. Phillip Adams has been a powerhouse of the Australian film industry. He has been a key adviser to the government on other important issues such as climate change. Former Prime Minister Scott Morrison has been appointed as an AC for his leadership during the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Celebrated Contributions to the Arts
Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin, image courtesy of Bazmark Baz and Catharine are both hugely successful artists in their own right. Specifically, they will be appointed Companions of the Order of Australia (AC). Luhrmann’s recognition comes for his exceptional contributions to the arts, while Martin’s honour highlights her remarkable achievements, which include winning more Oscars than any other Australian.
Catherine Martin expressed her gratitude for the recognition, stating, “I am so honoured to be joining the ranks of so many illustrious Australians, whom I have admired and been inspired by.” She remarked that it is especially meaningful to be recognized in her home country.
Luhrmann echoed similar sentiments, stating, “Catherine Martin and I feel this honour recognises not just us, but those who have made access to the arts possible for every Australian.” Both artists have worked together a lot since, deepening the already rich cultural landscape of Australia.
Acknowledging Leadership and Legacy
Scott Morrison was given his honour explicitly for his crisis leadership during the extraordinary period. The leadership – he reflected on the strength and resilience of Australians during the pandemic. “Through all of this, Australians were just incredible and the one assumption I made is that’s how they would be — their character would pull them through,” he remarked. His leadership was a key ingredient in Australia’s success story, as the country faced the challenges of a worldwide pandemic.
Wendy McCarthy has spent her life devoted to the cause of public service and advocacy. She made no secret of her shock at receiving such a prestigious honor. “I have lived a purposeful life but have been left strangely awe-struck by the honour,” she stated. McCarthy’s influence spans decades, making her a significant figure in promoting women’s rights and education across Australia.
Phillip Adams reflected on his long tenure in broadcasting, having recently bid farewell to a program he hosted for over 33 years. He maintained his characteristic wit when discussing the honour, saying, “If it doesn’t worry [King] Charles, it doesn’t worry me.” Adams has recently been a leading voice for advocating social justice causes such as gun violence, the environment and climate change.
The Impact of Recognition
The King’s Birthday Honours are important for recognising individual excellence. They’re important in creating role models for the next generation. The range of honourees illustrates Australia’s commitment to recognizing both local heroes and international figures who have made a difference.
With an increasing number of Australians signalling their intent to vote for serious climate action, Phillip Adams’ crusading spirit is badly needed. Australian National University Professor Stuart Mark Howden said that public mood was rapidly turning to a call for a movement on action in the climate space. “If you survey the average Australian, nine out of 10 will actually say they want more action on climate change so I think the message has got through,” he said.
This call for action is mirrored in wider societal conversations, signaling an important moment for further innovation across sectors. Besides recognising and celebrating these honourees, we hope Australia will look inward on the collaborative, engaged, supportive communities we are all working to foster.
