Nominate someone for an award

The Order of Australia

The Order of Australia recognises Australians who have demonstrated outstanding service or exceptional achievement.  

Anyone can nominate a member of the community for an award in the Order of Australia.  Nominating someone is a chance to recognise a peer for their hard-work, service and dedication. It is an opportunity to celebrate those inspiring people who make our nation what it is. 

Important Update - Changes to nominating for the Order of Australia

On 31 October 2025 the Australian Honours and Awards Secretariat implemented changes to the way nominations for the Order of Australia are submitted. These changes have been designed to increase efficiency.    

These changes apply to all new nominations and those that have not yet been submitted. 

Detailed guidance is provided on The Order of Australia page.

Australian Bravery Decorations

Nominations are made through the online portal.

Australian Bravery Decorations recognise people who, without thought of personal risk, displayed courage and bravery to protect or defend others.

You will need to include:

  • The contact details of the person you are nominating (if known)
  • A description of the incident where the brave act occurred
  • Details of what the person you are nominating did; which could be supported by
    • Photographs of the incident or the place it occurred
    • Links to media articles or other information about the incident
  • If available, the contact details of any other witnesses to the incident
  • Your own contact details.

National Emergency Medal

The National Emergency Medal recognises service in response to a nationally-significant emergency. Nationally-significant emergencies must be declared by the Australian Government under the National Emergency Medal Regulations 2011. Current nationally-significant emergencies are:

  • Floods February 2022;
  • Bushfires 2019-20;
  • North Queensland Floods 2019;
  • Tropical Cyclone Debbie 2017;
  • Queensland Floods 2010-11 and Cyclone Yasi; and
  • Victorian Bushfires 2009.

More information about applying can be found on the National Emergency Medal page.