An outstanding water leader has been recognised in the 2026 Australia Day Honours List for their profound and lasting contributions to water management and environmental leadership.
Leith Ester Boully AM (late)
Leith Boully was posthumously appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to conservation and the environment.
Widely respected across Australia’s water sector, Leith’s influence on water reform, governance and leadership development spanned decades. She brought clarity, courage and a strong public-interest lens to some of the country’s most complex water and environmental challenges.
Leith held senior leadership and governance roles across state and national institutions, including as National Water Commissioner, Chair of Sunwater, Chair of the Australian Water Recycling Centre of Excellence, and Independent Chair of the Catchment and Coastal Reef Advisory Committee. Her work with the Murray–Darling Basin Ministerial Council and Land and Water Australia helped shape enduring approaches to basin-scale water management and collaboration.
A defining part of Leith’s legacy is her role in developing and leading the Peter Cullen Trust Leadership Program, through which she mentored and inspired generations of water professionals.
Recognising excellence across the water sector
Recognising leadership, the honour awarded to the late Leith Boully reflects the depth of her expertise and commitment within Australia’s water community. We honour Leith Boully’s enduring legacy.
by Water Source
