QUT community members have been honoured for their remarkable service and outstanding achievements in the 2026 Australia Day Honours list.
Their contributions span trauma medicine, public policy, community health, sport and more, reflecting the far-reaching impact of QUT alumni, staff, and partners across Australia and around the world.
A total of 680 Australians received awards in the General Division of the Order of Australia in 2026 with 208 of those given the highest honours – a Companion (AC), Officer (AO) or Member (AM) of the Order of Australia.
Among the honourees are QUT alumni, including:
- Jo Brick AM, GradCertIntell. For exceptional service to the Royal Australian Air Force in military legal services and staff appointments.
- Sandra Chipchase AM, BBus (Communication). For significant service to the major event and tourism industry.
- Terry Doherty AM, BEd, GradDipHlthSc (Health Education). For significant service to basketball in administrative and referee education roles.
- David Gole AM, Barch. For significant service to architecture, and to heritage conservation.
- Patricia Barry OAM, BEd. For service to life-saving, and to the community of the Sunshine Coast.
- Michel Itel OAM, BBus. For service to community health.
- Councillor Danielle Mulholland OAM, GradCertJus, MJus. For service to local government, and to the community of Kyogle.
- Joseph Saina OAM, GradCertBus (Management), GDBA, MBA. For service to the fresh produce sector, and to horticultural trade.
- Travis Schultz OAM, LLB. For service to law, and to the community.
QUT Vice-Chancellor Professor Margaret Sheil AO said she was proud of the honourees, recognising their embodiment of the QUT core values.

“Seeing members of the QUT community acknowledged in this way speaks to the remarkable calibre, depth and dedication of our people,” Professor Sheil said.
“We are proud to champion a university culture where diversity is valued and everyone is empowered and supported to grow, succeed and lead.
“These honours being bestowed in our community serve a testament to the passion, resilience, and creativity of our alumni, staff, and collaborators, who are leading the way in transforming lives and creating positive change in the world.”
Full details on the awardees are available on the Governor-General’s website.
Media contact:
QUT Media
07 3138 2361 / 0407 585 901 (After Hours)
