Overview

The Order of Australia, established in 1975, is Australia's general honours list system, recognising Australians and others for their service and achievements. It was enacted by the Australian Parliament to create a means of recognising and rewarding outstanding service and achievements by Australians and others. The appointment of General Thomas Antonius Middendorp as an Honorary Officer (AO) in the Military Division of the Order of Australia is an example of this system in action, recognising his distinguished service as Commander of the Dutch Multinational Task Force 6 and the Chief of Defence of the Armed Forces of the Netherlands, and his efforts to enhance Defence engagement between Australia and the Netherlands. The policy objective of the Order of Australia is to recognise and reward the contributions of Australians and others to the nation. This honorary appointment was made by the Governor-General on the advice of the Defence Honours and Awards Appeals Board. General Middendorp has been recognised for his exceptional leadership and commitment to fostering professional, institutional, and personal ties between the Australian Defence Force and the Armed Forces of the Netherlands. His contributions have been particularly notable in facilitating the smooth transition of authority during the withdrawal of Dutch forces from Afghanistan in 2009, and in ensuring that Australian Defence Force elements received the highest level of support during the repatriation mission following the tragic loss of Malaysian Airlines Flight 17 over Ukraine in 2014.

Scope and Application

The Gazette C2017G00138 honours General Thomas Antonius Middendorp, from the Netherlands, by appointing him as an Honorary Officer (AO) in the Military Division of the Order of Australia. This appointment recognises his distinguished service as the Commander of the Dutch Multinational Task Force 6 and his role as the Chief of Defence of the Armed Forces of the Netherlands. Furthermore, it acknowledges his significant efforts in enhancing defence engagement between Australia and the Netherlands. General Middendorp's contributions are highlighted by his leadership during the transition of authority during the withdrawal of Dutch forces from Afghanistan in 2009 and his exceptional leadership during the response to the tragic loss of Malaysian Airlines Flight 17 over Ukraine in 2014, ensuring strong support for Australian Defence Force elements during the repatriation mission.

Key Provisions

The primary sections of this legislation (C2017G00138) pertain to the appointment of an individual to the Military Division of the Order of Australia. Specifically, General Thomas Antonius Middendorp from The Netherlands has been appointed as an Honorary Officer (AO) in recognition of his distinguished service and contributions to Defence cooperation between Australia and the Netherlands (Section 1). This appointment acknowledges his role as Commander of the Dutch Multinational Task Force 6 and his position as Chief of Defence of the Armed Forces of the Netherlands. Additionally, it recognises his significant efforts in enhancing Defence engagement and cooperation between the two countries. The Act imposes certain obligations on the appointed individual, General Middendorp, and his acceptance of this honorary title comes with a set of responsibilities. As an Honorary Officer in the Military Division of the Order of Australia, General Middendorp is expected to uphold the values and standards associated with this honour, including demonstrating commitment to fostering professional, institutional, and personal ties between the Australian Defence Force and the Armed Forces of the Netherlands. His role may also involve participating in ceremonial and public events that represent the Australian government and its military engagements. Failure to comply with the obligations and responsibilities associated with the appointment may lead to consequences under Australian law. Although specific offences and penalties are not detailed in this document, dishonouring the title or engaging in actions that bring discredit to the Order of Australia or the Australian government could result in civil or criminal consequences. Such actions might include legal proceedings or the revocation of the honorary title, reflecting the seriousness with which such appointments are regarded. The potential penalties for breaches could include fines, imprisonment, or other sanctions as prescribed by relevant Australian laws.