Women Veterans Australia proudly congratulates the outstanding women recognised in the 2026 Australia Day Honours, acknowledging their exceptional service, leadership, and commitment to Australia.
Each year, the Australia Day Honours provide an opportunity to publicly recognise individuals whose dedication and professionalism have made a lasting impact on our nation. This year’s list includes an inspiring cohort of women from across the Australian Defence Force, whose contributions span operational service, capability development, technical excellence, and leadership at every level.
Their achievements reflect not only individual excellence, but the growing visibility and influence of women across Defence, both in uniform and beyond.
Recognising Service Across the ADF
We proudly celebrate the women whose service has been formally acknowledged in the Military Division of the 2026 Australia Day Honours, including:
- Air Commodore Maria Brick – Member (AM) in the Military Division
- Group Captain Aleisha Broadhead – Member (AM) in the Military Division
- Wing Commander Nadia Harrison, CSM – Member (AM) in the Military Division
- Petty Officer Kerryn Seaborn – Medal (OAM) in the Military Division
- Warrant Officer Class One Kimberly Kiely – Medal (OAM) in the Military Division
- Sergeant Ashlee Liversedge – Commendation for Distinguished Service
- Ms Sarah Nixon – Commendation for Distinguished Service
- Commander Stefanie Maree Curic, RAN – Conspicuous Service Cross (CSC)
- Lieutenant Commander Caitlin Melanie Fuller, RAN – Conspicuous Service Cross (CSC)
- Brigadier Caitlin Langford – Conspicuous Service Cross (CSC)
- Lieutenant Colonel Tegan Musumeci – Conspicuous Service Cross (CSC)
- Colonel Lauren Wright – Conspicuous Service Cross (CSC)
- Lieutenant Commander Gemma Casserly, RAN – Conspicuous Service Medal (CSM)
- Lieutenant Perri Trew, RAN – Conspicuous Service Medal (CSM)
- Chief Petty Officer Tara-Ann Wilson – Conspicuous Service Medal (CSM)
- Warrant Officer Kerrie-Anne Hammond – Conspicuous Service Medal (CSM)
You can view the full list of military recipients on the Defence website.
Why This Recognition Matters
For women veterans - past, present, and future - visibility matters.
These honours acknowledge not only outstanding individual achievement, but the collective progress of women across Defence. They send a powerful message to those currently serving, those transitioning, and those considering a future in uniform: your service matters, your leadership counts, and your contributions are valued.
At Women Veterans Australia, we know that recognition plays a critical role in shaping culture, confidence, and opportunity. Every award, commendation, and citation helps open the door wider for the next generation of women in service, and ensures that women’s contributions are seen, respected, and remembered.
Our Congratulations
To each of the women recognised in the 2026 Australia Day Honours: your service exemplifies courage, resilience, professionalism, and excellence. Your leadership strengthens our Defence Force, our veteran community, and our nation.
We celebrate you, and we thank you.