Australia Day honours our sector

This year’s Australia Day honours have celebrated the remarkable contributions of several distinguished individuals across the not-for-profit health and aged care sector.

They include leaders in medicine and research, aged care and community services, including two recipients who have been awarded posthumously for their work.

“The charitable, not-for-profit health and aged care sector is an integral part of Australian society building on the legacy of the early Sisters and Catholic communities over the past 186 years,” said Catholic Health Australia CEO Jason Kara.

“Without our faith-based organisations, the public system would be under even more pressure than it already is.

“These awards remind us of the selfless work of individuals across our 80 hospitals and 350 aged care services who continue to reflect our mission of caring for the sick and vulnerable.

“We are proud to acknowledge their recognition at the national level.”

Australia Day recipients include:

Professor John Fraser AO, Director of Intensive Care at St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital

Professor John Fraser has been awarded an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for his outstanding service to intensive care medicine. His leadership and expertise have been instrumental in advancing critical care practices. St Andrew’s is part of Uniting Care Queensland Hospitals, who are a CHA member. Read more about John here

Associate Professor Susan Elizabeth Mathers AM, Calvary Health Care Bethlehem

Associate Professor Susan Elizabeth Mathers has been honoured as an Honorary Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for her significant service to medicine as a clinician and to neurological research. Her contributions have greatly advanced the field of neurology and patient care. Read more here.

Kevin Andrews AM, VMCH Board Member

The late Kevin Andrews has also been recognised for his service. His contributions have been instrumental in supporting the community, including through his work at VMCH where he was a Board Director. Read more about his work here.

Professor Samar Aoun AM, Aged Care Researcher

Professor Samar Mouin Aoun has been recognised for her contributions to aged care research. Her work has significantly improved the quality of life for older Australians. In 2023, she presented at the CHA Conference in Perth on loneliness, particularly in a world where people are more connected than ever.

Dr Samantha Pillay OAM, VMO at Calvary North Adelaide Hospital

Dr Samantha Pillay has received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her service to urology. Her extensive involvement in various professional organizations and her contributions to urological research and education have been highly impactful. Dr Pillay is also a prolific author and advocate for continence care. Read more about Samantha here.

Paul Johnson OAM, former BallyCara Executive

The late Paul Johnson has been honoured posthumously for his contributions to aged care. His leadership and dedication have left a lasting legacy in the sector. BallyCara is a CHA member. Read more about Paul’s legacy here.

Catholic Health Australia extends its heartfelt congratulations to all recipients for their exceptional contributions and dedication to their fields. Their achievements inspire us all to strive for excellence in our work.