Celebrating Excellence: South Asian Honourees in the Australia Day 2026 Honours List: The Australia Day 2026 Honours List has recognised the exceptional contributions of 949 Australians, marking a significant increase of over 200 awards from the previous year. This year’s list shines a brilliant light on the profound impact of the nation’s South Asian community, with numerous individuals of “Desi” heritage receiving accolades across science, medicine, education, and community service. Their stories are a testament to dedication, expertise, and a deep commitment to enriching Australian society.
Dr. Ravinder Raj ANAND (AC)
State: Western Australia
Honour: Appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC)
Citation: For significant service to earth science and mineral resources, to regolith exploration, and to geochemistry.
Profile: A pioneering geoscientist whose groundbreaking work in regolith exploration and geochemistry has revolutionised mineral discovery in Australia. Dr. Anand’s research has been instrumental in unlocking vital resources, contributing significantly to the nation’s economic and scientific standing.
Farah Percy MADON
Location: Emu Plains, New South Wales 2750
Citation: For significant service to architecture, and to people with disability.
Profile: An acclaimed architect dedicated to inclusive design. Madon’s innovative work focuses on creating accessible, functional, and beautiful spaces that empower people with disabilities, ensuring architecture serves as a tool for inclusion and independence.
Emeritus Professor Prem RAMBURUTH
Location: Lane Cove, New South Wales 2066
Citation: For significant service to tertiary education, particularly through international partnerships.
Profile: A towering figure in Australian higher education. Professor Ramburuth’s visionary leadership in forging international academic partnerships has elevated the profile of Australian universities globally, fostering cross-cultural exchange and educational excellence.
Dipak SANGHVI
State: Victoria
Citation: For significant service to community health through governance and board roles.
Profile: A respected leader in public health governance. Through strategic board roles, Sanghvi has guided vital community health initiatives, ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare and strengthening the sector’s infrastructure for all Victorians.
Dr. Kunwarjit Singh SANGLA
State: Queensland
Citation: For significant service to endocrinology, and to the rural and Indigenous communities of Queensland.
Profile: A compassionate endocrinologist whose work extends far beyond the clinic. Dr. Sangla has committed his expertise to addressing critical health disparities, providing specialised care and advocacy for underserved rural and Indigenous communities across Queensland.
Chinthaka Indunil Samaraweera ATUKORALA
Location: Shepparton, Victoria 3630
Citation: For service to the multicultural community of the Goulburn Valley.
Profile: A pillar of the Goulburn Valley’s vibrant multicultural fabric. Atukorala’s relentless advocacy and community work have been crucial in promoting social cohesion, supporting new migrants, and celebrating the region’s rich cultural diversity.
Satwant Singh CALAIS
Location: Oatlands, New South Wales 2117
Citation: For service to the Sikh community.
Profile: A steadfast leader within the Australian Sikh community. Calais’s efforts in organising religious, cultural, and charitable activities have strengthened community bonds, preserved heritage, and promoted the Sikh values of service and equality.
Shyam Ratan DAS
State: Queensland
Citation: For service to the Indian community of Queensland.
Profile: A unifying force within Queensland’s Indian diaspora. Das’s leadership in cultural associations and community events has played a key role in nurturing a strong, supportive, and vibrant Indian-Australian community.
Mohammad KAMRUZZAMAN
Location: Pakenham, Victoria 3810
Citation: For service to the arts, and to the Bengali community of Melbourne.
Profile: A cultural custodian and artist. Through dedication to Bengali music, literature, and performance, Kamruzzaman has enriched Melbourne’s arts scene while providing a vital cultural touchstone for the city’s Bengali community.
Tausif KHAN
State: Queensland
Citation: For service to the Indian community of Brisbane.
Profile: A dynamic community organiser in Brisbane. Khan’s initiatives have provided essential support networks, celebrated Indian festivals, and advocated for the community’s interests, enhancing the social and cultural life of Indian-Australians in the region.
Selliah NALLIAH
Location: Wheelers Hill, Victoria 3150
Citation: For service to the Tamil and Hindu communities of Victoria.
Profile: A revered elder and advocate for Victoria’s Tamil and Hindu populations. Nalliah’s lifelong commitment to religious observance, cultural education, and community welfare has been fundamental in preserving traditions and supporting families.
Bharat NEPAL
Location: Lalor Park, New South Wales 2147
Citation: For service to the Nepali community of New South Wales, and to mental health.
Profile: A dual champion for community and wellbeing. Nepal has been instrumental in building a supportive network for Nepali-Australians while also driving crucial conversations and initiatives around mental health awareness, addressing stigma and providing support.
The inclusion of these distinguished individuals in the Australia Day 2026 Honours List not only celebrates their personal achievements but also highlights the invaluable and diverse contributions of the South Asian diaspora to the Australian national story. Their work exemplifies the spirit of service, innovation, and community that strengthens the fabric of the nation.
