Former PM Scott Morrison Awarded Nation’s Highest Honour in King’s Birthday List
SYDNEY, NSW – June 9, 2025
Former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has been appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC), the nation’s highest civilian honour, as part of the King’s Birthday Honours list for 2025. The recognition comes for his “eminent service to the people and parliament of Australia, particularly as prime minister,” citing his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, economic initiatives, and his pivotal role in establishing the AUKUS security agreement.
The announcement, made by Governor-General Sam Mostyn, places Mr. Morrison among a distinguished group of 14 Australians receiving the top accolade this year, including acclaimed filmmaker Baz Luhrmann and Oscar-winning costume designer Catherine Martin.4
In a statement, Mr. Morrison expressed his gratitude, stating he was “honoured and grateful” to receive the award. He reflected on his time as Australia’s 30th Prime Minister, calling it an “immense privilege” to serve the Australian people through what he described as challenges and threats not seen since the Second World War. He praised the “patriotism and mateship” of Australians during these times.
Mr. Morrison’s premiership, from 2018 to 2022, was marked by significant events including the devastating Black Summer bushfires, the global COVID-19 pandemic, and the negotiation of the trilateral AUKUS defence pact with the United Kingdom and the United States. His honour specifically highlights his contributions to global engagement, his leadership of the national COVID-19 response, and his national security enhancements through AUKUS.
While the award acknowledges his period of leadership, Mr. Morrison’s time in office also attracted scrutiny and controversy. These included criticism over his handling of the bushfire crisis, particularly a holiday taken in Hawaii, and revelations after his premiership that he had secretly appointed himself to several ministerial portfolios during the pandemic.
Despite these past controversies, the awarding of the AC to former prime ministers is a long-standing tradition within the Australian honours system.
With the exception of Paul Keating, who declined the honour, every former Australian prime minister since the inception of the Order of Australia in 1975 has been offered and accepted a Companion of the Order of Australia.
The 2025 King’s Birthday Honours list recognises 830 Australians across various fields, celebrating selfless service, integrity, achievement, creativity, and care within the community.8
