Gold Coast-based plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dilipkumar Gahankari has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours List for service to plastic and reconstructive surgery.
The announcement was made as part of the national Honours List recognising 948 Australians across the Order of Australia (General and Military Divisions), meritorious awards and conspicuous service awards.
“As Governor-General and Chancellor of the Order of Australia, I am delighted to announce and congratulate the remarkable Australians receiving honours in The 2026 King’s Birthday list,” said Sam Mostyn.
“Our honours system recognises outstanding people who contribute so much to Australia. In our communities, in workplaces and across the country, recipients have made an exceptional contribution to Australia.”
Dr Gahankari, from Maharashtra in India, has been recognised for his long-standing contribution to plastic, reconstructive and cosmetic surgery practice in Australia, along with his work in clinical care, medical education and advisory roles in public health and regulatory systems.
He has worked across both public and private health systems in Queensland and New South Wales, including specialist surgical roles at major hospitals such as the Gold Coast University Hospital and Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital.
His career includes extensive experience in reconstructive surgery, burns care, hand surgery and cosmetic procedures, along with a focus on patient safety and surgical outcomes.
Beyond clinical practice, he has held academic appointments with Australian and international universities and contributed to medical training and research programs in surgery and health innovation.
Dr Gahankari has also served in advisory roles with government and regulatory bodies, including contributions to medical device safety and industrial relations tribunals in Queensland.
His humanitarian and professional work includes participation in surgical missions and emergency response efforts in the Asia-Pacific region, including East Timor and disaster relief operations.
He has previously received recognition for rural and community surgical service and contributions to healthcare delivery in India and Australia.
The King’s Birthday Honours List includes 702 recipients in the General Division of the Order of Australia, along with 34 military awards, 149 meritorious awards and 63 conspicuous service awards.
Recipients will attend investiture ceremonies at Government House in their respective states and territories in the coming months.
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