Flinders University is proud to acknowledge alumni and staff who have been celebrated in the 2026 Australia Day Honours.

The Honourable Chief Justice Christopher John Kourakis AC – awarded a Doctor of Law honoris causa at Flinders in 2015 was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia for his eminent service to the law, the Greek community, and to education.

“It is an honour and great pleasure to receive this award. It is particularly satisfying that it recognises my efforts to support the advancement of Australia’s diverse communities and my commitment to continuing education. Both reflect the importance I attach to ensuring equal opportunity for all,” said Chief Justice Kourakis.

Human rights campaigner and Flinders alumna Carolyn Frohmader AO has been appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia for her distinguished service to people with disability, particularly women and girls.

“The roles I took on during my time studying at Flinders were instrumental in helping me pursue my advocacy for human rights. It was an amazing experience, and I recommend it to anyone passionate about postgraduate study. I’m proud to be only the 13th Tasmanian woman to receive the award at this level.”

For his significant service to lymphology as a clinician and academic, Professor Neil Piller AM from Flinders’ College of Medicine and Public Health has been awarded a Member of the Order of Australia.

Professor Piller has dedicated his career to helping those suffering from the chronic condition, which can develop when the lymphatic system fails, due to cancer and other conditions.

“Receiving this honour means so much for our area of research,” says Professor Piller. “It’s an area deserving more attention and this award may help us achieve that.

“Gaining this recognition is not just about me, for without our fantastic staff, research students and associates who support us we could never achieve what we have done and will do. But there is more to be done, and that is what keeps me stimulated, enthusiastic and determined to make a difference.” Read more from Professor Piller here.

 Flinders University congratulates all our other honorary awardees who have been recognised in the 2026 Australia Day Honours list:

• Geoffrey Tattersall AM: Awarded a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to veterans, and to community health.
• Tanya Hosch AM: Awarded a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to the community through social policy, and as an advocate for diversity and inclusion.
• Graham Hill OAM: Recognised with a Medal of the Order of Australia for service to youth, and to vocational education.
• Felix Ho Lam Ho ASM OAM: Honoured with a Medal of the Order of Australia for service to community health.
• Simon Kirkmoe AFSM: Recognised with an Australian Fire Service Medal for distinguished service as a member of an Australian fire service.
• Sandra Gutsche ASM: Honoured with an Ambulance Service Medal for distinguished service as a member of an Australian ambulance service.
• Mark Cunnington ESM: Emergency services medal for distinguished service as a member of an Australian emergency service.