Brisbane-based community advocate Usha Kiran Chandra has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours List for service to the Indian community of Queensland.
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.”
Mrs Chandra has been recognised for decades of community service focused on multicultural engagement, cultural organisation, and support for Indian-Australian community initiatives across Brisbane and Queensland.
She has held senior roles in the Queensland branch of the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), including serving as president and founding member, and has been involved in multicultural advisory and community councils for many years.
Her work has included organising major cultural events such as India Day celebrations, community festivals and fundraising initiatives, as well as supporting religious and cultural organisations across Queensland.
Mrs Chandra has also contributed to broader community engagement through sponsorship and support of local schools, sporting clubs and multicultural events, alongside long-term involvement in community festivals and civic initiatives.
In addition to her community work, she is a director and co-owner of Chantex Pty Ltd and has been involved in media and publishing initiatives, including community radio and Indian-Australian media platforms in Brisbane.
She has previously been recognised for her contributions to multiculturalism and community service, including being jointly named Brisbane Citizen of the Year in 2019.
The King’s Birthday Honours List this year 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.
The Governor-General said the honours system continues to recognise Australians whose service reflects the diversity and strength of the national community.
Recipients will attend investiture ceremonies at Government House in their respective states and territories in the coming months.
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