Overview

The Order of Australia, established in 1975, is a prestigious honour bestowed upon individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation, whether in the fields of public service, humanitarian efforts, or community engagement. This distinguished award is designed to recognise exemplary service and dedication to the betterment of society, with recipients being appointed to one of several levels within the Order, including the General Division where Ms Margaret Humphreys has been honoured. The Governor-General, acting on behalf of the Australian Government, made the announcement of her appointment, highlighting her exceptional work in addressing the historical injustices faced by former child migrants. Through her relentless advocacy and tireless efforts, Ms Humphreys has not only provided vital services to those affected but has also influenced substantial policy changes, culminating in two formal apologies and several national inquiries. Her recognition as an Honorary Officer in the General Division of the Order of Australia underscores the profound impact of her work and her unwavering commitment to social justice.

Scope and Application

The appointment of Ms Margaret Humphreys CBE OAM as an Honorary Officer (AO) in the General Division of the Order of Australia recognises her distinguished service to the community, particularly to former child migrants. This recognition is a testament to her unwavering dedication and tireless efforts over more than three decades, which have significantly improved the lives of over 2000 former child migrants. Ms Humphreys founded the Child Migrants Trust in 1987 and has been its International Director, undertaking extensive research, providing social work services, and pioneering therapeutic support. Her advocacy has not only facilitated the reunification of families but also led to significant policy changes, including major apologies and national inquiries in both Australia and the United Kingdom. This appointment underscores the profound impact of her work and her role in advocating for social justice and the rights of former child migrants.

Key Provisions

The Gazette C2019G00339 issued on 10 April 2019, announces an honorary appointment in the General Division of the Order of Australia, recognising Ms Margaret Humphreys CBE OAM for her distinguished service to the community, particularly to former child migrants. This appointment as an Honorary Officer (AO) (Section 2) recognises her extensive work and advocacy for social justice and the rights of former child migrants. Ms Humphreys has been instrumental in helping more than 2000 former child migrants to reconnect with their families and reclaim their identities, which she has achieved through her tireless efforts since founding the Child Migrants Trust in 1987. Ms Humphreys' role under this Act involves continued recognition of her work and contributions. The Act acknowledges her dedication to social work, her research into births, deaths and marriages, and her pioneering therapeutic services for former child migrants. Additionally, her significant role in bringing about major apologies and national inquiries relating to child migration in both Australia and the United Kingdom, underscores her ongoing commitment to advocating for social justice and systemic change. Breach of any obligations associated with this appointment, while not explicitly detailed in the text, could potentially lead to civil or criminal consequences depending on the nature of the breach. The penalties for such breaches, if applicable, would be in line with the severity of the misconduct or failure to meet the responsibilities of the appointed role. However, the Gazette does not specify any particular offences, penalties, or consequences for non-compliance within this context. Given the nature of the appointment, any breach could tarnish the prestige associated with the Order of Australia and potentially affect Ms Humphreys' standing within the community she has served so diligently.