Honorary Appointment – May 2022 (2)

Overview

The Gazette, C2022G00369, dated 3 May 2022, provides an announcement of a significant honorary appointment in the Military Division. Admiral General Teodoro Esteban López Calderón has been appointed as an Officer (AO) for his exceptional service in enhancing the defence relationship between Australia and Spain. This recognition underscores his personal commitment, engagement, and support towards Australia, reflecting the mutual benefits of strengthened international ties in defence cooperation. The appointment was made by the Governor-General, demonstrating the importance of acknowledging and rewarding contributions that bolster international defence relationships. The appointment was made under the authority of the Governor-General in accordance with the provisions of the Australian Honours System. The Gazette highlights the policy objective of recognising and rewarding individuals who have made significant contributions to Australia’s national interests, particularly in strengthening defence collaborations with other countries. This appointment aims to formalise the appreciation of Admiral General Calderón’s efforts, thereby encouraging further engagement and cooperation in defence matters between Australia and Spain.

Scope and Application

The C2022G00369 Gazette from May 2022 pertains to the announcement of a specific honorary appointment, which is an Officer (AO) in the Military Division. This appointment is bestowed upon Admiral General Teodoro Esteban López Calderón for his exceptional service in bolstering the defence relationship between Australia and Spain through his personal commitment, engagement, and support to Australia. The scope of this appointment is limited to recognising an individual's contributions, specifically Admiral General López Calderón, and does not extend to any broader legislative or regulatory framework. This announcement is issued by the Governor-General and signed by Paul Singer MVO, the Official Secretary to the Governor-General, indicating the Commonwealth's acknowledgment of the individual's service.

Key Provisions

The legislation (C2022G00369), dated 3 May 2022, announces the appointment of Admiral General Teodoro Esteban López Calderón as an Officer (AO) in the Military Division of the Order of Australia. This appointment (section 2) recognises his exceptional service in strengthening the defence relationship between Australia and Spain through personal commitment, engagement, and support. This is a significant honour that highlights the importance of international defence relationships and the role of individuals in fostering such connections. Under this appointment, Admiral General Calderón is expected to represent the values and honour of the Order of Australia, reflecting the high regard in which his contributions are held. The requirements for this role include maintaining the dignity and prestige of the Order, participating in relevant ceremonial duties, and continuing to engage in activities that promote the defence relationship between Australia and Spain. The obligations of the appointee are to act with integrity, uphold the principles of the Order, and contribute to the broader objectives of Australian defence policy. Breaching the obligations associated with this appointment could result in serious consequences. While specific offences, penalties, or civil/criminal consequences are not detailed in this particular announcement, dishonouring the Order of Australia can generally lead to the revocation of the honour, which is a significant sanction. Additionally, if any misconduct or dishonourable actions are involved, they could potentially lead to legal repercussions under other applicable laws, although these are not specified here. The maximum penalties for such breaches, if they fall under other legal frameworks, could range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity and nature of the offence.