How it is awarded

The Order of Australia is the pre-eminent way Australians recognise the achievements and service of their fellow citizens.

Nominations for awards in the General Division of the Order of Australia come directly from the community. Nominations are considered by the Council for the Order of Australia which makes recommendations direct to the Governor-General.

Appointments in the Order of Australia are not made posthumously. However, a nomination will be considered if the person is alive when the nomination form is received by the Australian Honours and Awards Secretariat at Government House in Canberra.

The Governor-General makes appointments to the Military Division of the Order of Australia on the recommendation of the Minister for Defence.

Honorary appointments in the Order of Australia may be made to people who are not Australian citizens where they have given extraordinary service to Australia or humanity at large.