Victoria University celebrates 2026 King’s Birthday Honours recipients

Each year, the King’s Birthday Honours List recognise Australians who have made outstanding contributions to society across fields such as community service, education, industry, health and the arts. 

For Victoria University (VU), this recognition reflects something deeper. It highlights the real and lasting impact that our staff, alumni, partners and broader community have made on people’s lives – particularly in creating opportunities for others to learn, grow and succeed. 

This year’s recipients exemplify the power of education to shape not only individual futures, but also stronger and more inclusive communities. Many of those recognised have used their expertise, leadership and lived experience to open doors for others, advocate for equity, and drive meaningful change. These are the same values that underpin VU’s commitment to supporting students from diverse and often underrepresented backgrounds to realise their potential. 

Member of the Order of Australia (AM)

• Professor Emerita Tracey Bunda – Senior Research Fellow at Moondani Balluk, 2013-2014; Adjunct Researcher, 2017 
  For significant service to tertiary education and research, and to the Indigenous community.
• Associate Professor Michael Steyn – Adjunct Professor
  For significant service to anaesthesiology and peri-operative medicine, and to health leadership.

Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM)

• Dr Ann Wollner – Adjunct Fellow, 2014-2018
  For service to the Jewish community.
• Bernadette Gigliotti – Former Curriculum Writer; Former VET Project Officer
  For service to secondary and vocational education.
• Darren Mort – Former Sessional Lecturer
  For service to the law.
• Jeffrey Pekin – Certificate IV in Civil Construction Supervision (2009)
  For service to the community of the Horsham region.

Public Service Medal

• Daniel O’Kelly – Bachelor of Business (1999); Master of Business (Government & Business Management) (2001)
  For outstanding public service in child protection and community services reform.

VU’s Chief Advancement Officer, Dani Howden, said she had been struck by the profound impact being made by VU alumni, partners and others connected to the university. 

“Having just joined Victoria University, I have been incredibly impressed by the breadth and depth of impact that is demonstrated by our VU community across Australia and beyond,” Dani said. 

“What stands out is the way so many of these individuals are creating pathways for others. Whether through leadership, advocacy or service, their contributions reflect a strong commitment to ensuring more people have the opportunity to succeed. It is a privilege for VU to celebrate their achievements through the King’s Birthday Honours.”

VU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adam Shoemaker, said the recognition speaks to the broader purpose of the University and its community. 

“These honours recognise individuals whose work continues to positively shape the lives of others,” Professor Shoemaker said. 

At Victoria University, we see every day how access to education can transform futures. It is inspiring to see our alumni, partners and former colleagues extend that impact into the wider community, creating opportunities that help others thrive.

As a university grounded in access and opportunity, VU celebrates the diverse pathways our alumni and colleagues take to contribute to society. Their achievements are a powerful reminder that when more people are given the chance to succeed, the benefits extend far beyond the individual to families, communities and future generations.