Leaders across water, environmental management and public service have been recognised in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours, reflecting the significant contribution of individuals whose work has helped shape more sustainable and resilient communities.
This year's recipients include Professor Emeritus Michael Young AO, Dr Jonathon Howard AM, Dr Mark Lintermans AM, Emeritus Professor Carolyn Oldham AM, Robert Lehunt OAM, William Lowis OAM, Joan Liley OAM, Therese Tierney OAM and David Sheehan, who received a Public Service Medal.
Together, their achievements span water resource management, environmental stewardship, water science, freshwater conservation, infrastructure standards, regional water leadership and public health protection.
Professor Emeritus Michael Young has been appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for distinguished service to conservation and the environment, water resource management and tertiary education.
A respected water economist and policy expert, Young has spent decades shaping thinking around water reform, environmental management and sustainable resource use. His work through CSIRO, the University of Adelaide and numerous national and international advisory bodies has influenced water policy in Australia and beyond, helping drive more effective and sustainable approaches to water governance.
Dr Jonathon Howard has been recognised as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to tertiary education, conservation and sustainability.
A senior academic at Charles Sturt University, Howard has been a long-standing advocate for environmental education and community engagement. His contributions extend across sustainability initiatives, conservation organisations and Murray-Darling Basin advisory groups, supporting greater understanding of environmental stewardship and the role communities play in protecting natural resources.
Dr Mark Lintermans has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to freshwater conservation and the environment, and to fisheries ecology.
A leading freshwater ecologist, Lintermans has dedicated his career to protecting Australia's aquatic ecosystems and native fish species. Through research, conservation advocacy and advisory roles across government and environmental organisations, he has helped advance freshwater conservation and fisheries management nationwide.
Emeritus Professor Carolyn Oldham has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to tertiary education, and to environmental and water science.
An internationally recognised researcher and educator, Oldham has made significant contributions to water science, groundwater research and environmental engineering. Her work has helped strengthen understanding of water systems while supporting innovation, education and leadership across the sector.
Robert Lehunt has been awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to the plastics industry.
A respected engineering professional, Lehunt has made a significant contribution to the development of standards for plastic pipe systems used throughout the water industry. Through decades of involvement with Standards Australia and international standards committees, he has helped improve the reliability, safety and performance of critical water infrastructure.
William Lowis has received a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to local government and the community of the Burdekin Shire.
Lowis dedicated 18 years to the South Burdekin Water Board and has played a key role in regional water management, local governance and community development. His leadership across water, disaster management and community organisations has left a lasting impact on the Burdekin region and the people it serves.
Joan Liley has been awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to conservation and the community.
Liley has played an influential role in water governance and environmental management across Victoria, serving in leadership positions with South Gippsland Water, Southern Rural Water and the West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority. Her contributions have helped shape integrated water management and sustainability initiatives throughout the region.
Therese Tierney has been awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to community health in the Gippsland region.
Alongside an accomplished career in regional health, Tierney has contributed significantly to water governance through her leadership with East Gippsland Water. Her work has helped strengthen organisational strategy, governance and community outcomes across the region.
David Sheehan has been awarded a Public Service Medal (PSM) for outstanding public service in strengthening drinking water safety and public health protection.
Sheehan has made an important contribution to improving drinking water quality and safeguarding public health outcomes. His work has helped strengthen regulatory frameworks and water safety practices, supporting greater confidence in essential water services across Australia.
The Australian Water Association extends its congratulations to Professor Emeritus Michael Young AO, Dr Jonathon Howard AM, Dr Mark Lintermans AM, Emeritus Professor Carolyn Oldham AM, Robert Lehunt OAM, William Lowis OAM, Joan Liley OAM, Therese Tierney OAM and David Sheehan PSM on this well-deserved recognition.
Their achievements reflect the expertise, leadership and dedication that continue to strengthen Australia's water sector and contribute to a more sustainable future.