Overview

The Military Division of the Order of Australia Act 1998 was enacted to provide a means of recognising distinguished service and meritorious achievement by Australian Defence Force members, as well as non-Australians who have made significant contributions to the defence of Australia. The Act was passed by the Australian Parliament with the aim of formally acknowledging and rewarding exceptional service to the nation, particularly in the context of military and defence activities. The appointments announced on 21 May 2018 exemplify this policy objective by honouring individuals who have made substantial contributions to strengthening the defence relationships between Australia and its key allies, the United States and Singapore. Through the bestowal of the AO (Honorary Officer) in the Military Division, the Australian Government recognises and celebrates the dedication and leadership of Admiral Harry B Harris Jr and Lieutenant-General Perry Lim in fostering and enhancing the military ties between their respective nations and Australia.

Scope and Application

The Military Division of the Order of Australia recognises individuals who have made distinguished service to Australia through leadership, passion, and strategic foresight in enhancing military relationships with other countries. In this case, the appointments of Admiral Harry B Harris Jr from the United States and Lieutenant-General Perry Lim from Singapore are specifically noted for their significant contributions to the defence relationship between their respective countries and Australia. The recognition extends to their efforts in fostering new strategic opportunities, improving interoperability, and supporting regional security and stability. The appointments are made in recognition of their distinguished service and their roles in enhancing the close and longstanding defence relationships between Australia, the United States, and Singapore.

Key Provisions

The C2018G00379 Gazette announces honorary appointments within the Military Division of the Order of Australia. Specifically, two individuals have been recognised for their distinguished service to the military relationships between Australia and their respective countries. Admiral Harry B Harris Jr. from the United States (Section 1) has been appointed an Honorary Officer (AO) in the Military Division for his leadership, passion and strategic foresight in enhancing the defence relationship between the United States and Australia. Similarly, Lieutenant-General Perry Lim from Singapore (Section 2) has been appointed an Honorary Officer (AO) in the Military Division for his distinguished service in fostering new strategic opportunities for Australia and Singapore to work together. The Act imposes certain obligations and requirements on the appointed individuals. As Honorary Officers in the Military Division of the Order of Australia, both Admiral Harris and Lieutenant-General Lim are expected to uphold the values and ethos of the Order, which includes promoting and supporting the relationship between Australia and their respective countries. They are also expected to use their positions to enhance the defence relationship, as they have done previously. Furthermore, they must adhere to the rules and regulations governing the Order of Australia, including participating in ceremonial events and functions as required. Failure to comply with the obligations and requirements of the Order of Australia may result in various consequences. While the Gazette does not explicitly outline the penalties for non-compliance, the Australian Honours System has a framework for addressing breaches. For instance, an individual may be required to return their insignia if they no longer meet the eligibility criteria or have acted in a way that brings the Order into disrepute. In more severe cases, an individual may be expelled from the Order, which involves the formal revocation of their appointment and the return of any associated insignia or entitlements. Additionally, any criminal conviction or dishonourable conduct could also lead to a review of an individual's eligibility for an appointment or continued membership in the Order of Australia.