Freeman continues to add to her illustrious list of accomplishments, solidifying her status as one of Australia’s most celebrated athletes, forever linked to the nation’s most memorable sporting moment.

Her accolades already include being named Australian of the Year, Young Australian of the Year, earning Legend status in the Sport Australia Hall of Fame, and receiving the Order of Australia Medal. These sit alongside her Olympic gold and silver medals and her three Commonwealth Games gold medals.

The Kuku Yalanji and Birra Gubba woman received recognition for her “outstanding service to athletics as both an international competitor and ambassador, her efforts in fostering positive societal impact, her commitment to the reconciliation movement promoting unity and inclusion, and her role as an inspiration to young people.”

“My mother suggested that this honor is a gift from the Australian people. Initially, I didn’t see it that way, but she possesses remarkable wisdom. So, I decided to embrace it as it was intended,” Freeman shared, noting that her mother is a strong advocate for unity.

“I aim to stay true to myself and be genuine. My achievements and my story naturally encompass themes such as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives, the Olympic spirit, track and field, elite sports, and women in sports. These themes are diverse and wide-ranging.”

Freeman described the award as “quite mind-bending”.

“I set out to be the best athlete that I could be for myself and then all of a sudden this whole world unfolded right before my very eyes, and it just continues to expand, and it continues to be a wild ride, let me tell ya,” she said.

Palaszczuk, who won widespread support among Queenslanders but angered many in the rest of the country by limiting the local impact of the COVID-19 pandemic through harsh border restrictions, was praised for her recognition to public health.

The Council of the Order of Australia highlighted former federal finance minister Cormann for his contributions to government reform, multilateral affairs and international economic development.

The Belgian-born Australian politician became secretary-general of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) shortly after leaving the Senate.

Former NSW leader Kristina Keneally was recognised for her services as premier, as well as her later years as a federal senator.

Former South Australian premier Steven Marshall was recognised for his service to business, people with disability, governance and board positions.

In addition to the 680 recipients of awards in the General Division of the Order of Australia (10 AC, 38 AO, 160 AM and 472 OAM), today’s Honours list includes: 

You can search the table below for the full list of honourees.

Governor-General Sam Mostyn said the honourees reflected Australia’s values for service, community, kindness, curiosity, tenacity, and care.

“Congratulations to everyone recognised in the Australia Day 2026 Honours List,” she said.

“As the list so vividly showcases, so many Australians continue to give the best of themselves across many endeavours, in the interest of others. It is rewarding to see an increase in the number of awards, which reflects more nominations and recognition of the many Australians who inspire the best in all of us.”