Order of Australia - Honorary Appointment - General James Mattis (Retd)

Overview

The C2021G00920 Gazette, published on 9 August 2021, announces an honorary appointment in the Order of Australia. General James Mattis (Retd) from the United States of America has been awarded the Honorary Companion (AC) in the General Division for his eminent service to Australia's bilateral relationship with the United States and for his contributions to enhancing international security. This appointment recognises his significant impact on strengthening the partnership between the two countries and underscores the importance of his diplomatic efforts. The honour was made by the Governor-General, reflecting the high regard in which General Mattis is held for his work in fostering stronger ties and promoting stability in the region. This recognition also aligns with the policy objective of the Order of Australia to honour individuals who have made outstanding achievements or service to Australia or humanity at large.

Scope and Application

The C2021G00920 legislation applies to the recognition and conferral of honorary appointments within the Order of Australia, a national honours system. This particular appointment, made under the authority granted by the Australian Honours System, acknowledges General James Mattis' significant contributions to Australia’s bilateral relationship with the United States and his efforts in enhancing international security. The scope of this Act is limited to the creation of honorary appointments within the Order, which is a Commonwealth responsibility. It does not extend to the regulation of conduct or transactions outside the realm of national honours. The Act’s application is confined to the conferral of honours, and any additional rules or procedures governing these appointments are detailed in subordinate instruments. There are no stated exclusions or exemptions in this specific Act, though eligibility criteria for honours are determined by the relevant honours committees. The jurisdiction of this Act is national, reflecting the federal nature of the honours system.

Key Provisions

The Gazette C2021G00920, dated 9 August 2021, announces an honorary appointment in the Order of Australia. Specifically, it names General James Mattis (Retd) of the United States of America as an Honorary Companion (AC) in the General Division (1). This recognition is in acknowledgment of his eminent service to Australia's bilateral relationship with the United States and his contributions to enhancing international security (2). The appointment is formalised by the Governor-General, whose signature and command are attested by Paul Singer MVO, the Official Secretary to the Governor-General (3). The Act imposes certain obligations and requirements on the parties involved in this honorary appointment. For instance, the Governor-General, acting on the advice of the Australian government, recognises individuals for their significant contributions to Australia or humanity at large (4). This particular recognition of General James Mattis involves acknowledging his service to strengthening the Australia-US relationship and his efforts in international security, which are deemed valuable contributions (5). The formal announcement and publication in the Gazette serve to publicise this honour and provide it with official recognition (6). Breach of any protocol or disrespect towards the honours system can lead to various consequences. Although this Gazette itself does not specify penalties, Australian honours and awards legislation generally provides for disciplinary actions, including the potential revocation of an honour, if the recipient acts in a manner that brings dishonour to the award (7). Historically, dishonourable conduct or criminal activities can lead to the stripping of an honour, as seen in past cases where individuals have had their honours revoked (8). Additionally, civil and criminal penalties might apply if the breach of protocol involves legal misconduct (9).