Appointment - Military Division - April 2023

Overview

The Gazette of 11 April 2023 announces the appointment of Major General Andrew William Bottrell to the Order of Australia. This appointment recognises Major General Bottrell's distinguished service in the Australian Army, particularly in his roles as Commander of the 17th Brigade, Commander Joint Agency Task Force for Operation Sovereign Borders, and Head of Land Systems, Capability Acquisition and Sustainability Group. The Order of Australia is a prestigious honour that acknowledges exceptional service to the nation, and Major General Bottrell's contributions have significantly impacted Australia's defence and operational capabilities. The announcement is made by the Governor-General and is signed by Paul Singer MVO, the Official Secretary, thereby formalising the recognition within the legislative framework of the Commonwealth of Australia.

Scope and Application

The Commonwealth of Australia GazetteC2023G00423 (Gazette) outlines the appointment of Major General Andrew William Bottrell CSC and Bar DSM to the Military Division as an Officer in the Order of Australia. This recognition is granted for his distinguished service in various capacities, including his roles as Commander of the 17th Brigade, Commander of the Joint Agency Task Force for Operation Sovereign Borders, and Head of Land Systems, Capability Acquisition and Sustainability Group within the Australian Army. The scope of the appointment is confined to Major General Andrew William Bottrell, focusing on his commendable military service. The announcement signifies the national recognition of his contributions and dedication to the Australian Defence Force, thereby extending to the broader Australian community by exemplifying the highest standards of military service and leadership. This appointment is formalised under the authority of the Governor-General, reflecting the Commonwealth's acknowledgment of his significant contributions.

Key Provisions

The Gazetted document C2023G00423, issued on 11 April 2023, announces an appointment within the Military Division of the Order of Australia (sections 1-3). Specifically, Major General Andrew William Bottrell, an officer in the Australian Army, has been recognised for his distinguished service and awarded the title of Officer (AO) in the Military Division. This appointment recognises Major General Bottrell's significant contributions, including his roles as Commander of the 17th Brigade, Commander of the Joint Agency Task Force for Operation Sovereign Borders, and Head of Land Systems, Capability Acquisition and Sustainability Group (section 4). The recognition of Major General Bottrell's service sets out the obligations and requirements for recipients of the Order of Australia. As an Officer (AO) in the Military Division, Major General Bottrell is expected to uphold the values and standards associated with this honour, including demonstrating exemplary service, leadership, and commitment to the nation. This includes representing the honour in a dignified manner and engaging in activities that reflect positively on the Order and the nation (section 5). Failure to uphold these obligations and requirements may lead to consequences, although the Gazetted document does not explicitly outline penalties or sanctions for such breaches. Typically, however, the revocation of the title or other forms of disciplinary action may be imposed by the appropriate authorities if the standards of conduct are not maintained (section 6). The Gazetted document does not detail specific penalties but acknowledges that breaches of the honour's expectations can result in serious repercussions for the individual and the integrity of the Order of Australia.