Council for the Order of Australia
The Council for the Order of Australia is an independent body that considers nominations for appointments and awards in the General Division of the Order.
The Council makes recommendations for appointments direct to the Governor-General.
The Council considers whether a nominee in the Order of Australia has:
- demonstrated achievement at a high level;
- made a contribution over and above what might be reasonably expected through paid employment, or
- whose voluntary contribution to the community stands out from others who have also made a valuable contribution.
The Council meets twice a year. There are 19 members including representatives of every state and territory, public office holders (ex-officio) and community representatives.
The community representatives on the Council are appointed by the Governor-General on the recommendation of the Prime Minister.