KIng's birthday honours

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From medicine to community service: Indian-Australians make strong mark in 2026 King’s Birthday Honours List

The recognition of Indian-origin Australians across multiple honours categories highlights the breadth of their contribution to modern Australia — from medicine, psychiatry and research to community service, entrepreneurship, cultural leadership and social welfare.

Leading child psychiatrist Prof. Valsamma Eapen awarded Officer of the Order of Australia

Her career spans India, the United Kingdom and Australia, including advanced training at Great Ormond Street Hospital and University College London, followed by a PhD from the University of London.

Melbourne’s Chethicad Oommen Thomas awarded Medal of the Order of Australia for service to Indian community

Thomas, who migrated to Victoria in 1969 shortly after the dismantling of the White Australia Policy, has played a pivotal role in helping generations of Indian migrants settle, connect and thrive in Australia.

Surgeon Dilipkumar Gahankari awarded Medal of the Order of Australia for service to plastic and reconstructive surgery

Dr Gahankari's career includes extensive experience in reconstructive surgery, burns care, hand surgery and cosmetic procedures, along with a focus on patient safety and surgical outcomes.

Sydney’s Noshir Irani awarded Medal of the Order of Australia for service to the community

Mr Irani has served for many years as a Justice of the Peace and has volunteered with community meal programs supporting vulnerable residents.

Perth’s Dr Atul Kumar Garg awarded Medal of the Order of Australia for service to the community

Dr Garg has been recognised for sustained community service across Western Australia, particularly in neighbourhood safety, multicultural engagement, and health advocacy.

Canberra community leader Mohammed Ali awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia

Ali migrated to Australia from Pakistan in the early 1990s and has since built a long career in both professional and volunteer capacities, combining scientific training with community service.

Melbourne entrepreneur Saurabh Mishra awarded Medal of the Order of Australia for service to the community

Mr Mishra has also been active in cultural and arts organisations, including leadership within Melbourne’s Hindustani classical music community, supporting performance, education and cultural preservation.

Dr Abhishek Kumar Verma awarded Medal of the Order of Australia for service to medicine and medical administration

Alongside clinical practice, he plays a significant role in medical education, regularly teaching medical students and supervising doctors in training.

Sydney’s Bijinder Dugal awarded Medal of the Order of Australia for service to aged welfare

Mrs Dugal has been recognised for sustained service to older Australians, particularly within multicultural communities, through welfare programs, education initiatives and health and wellbeing support services.

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