Published 27 Jan 2026
Victorian educators recognised in the 2026 Australia Day Honours
Several outstanding Victorian teachers and educational leaders have been recognised in the 2026 Australia Day Honours list for their contributions to education and their communities.
Their achievements highlight the positive impact that dedicated educators have across the state. The recognition also reflects the strong support and respect Victorian communities hold for those working in the education sector.
We congratulate all recipients and thank them for their commitment to their learners, colleagues and communities. Their leadership and passion continue to strengthen education and inspire others across Victoria.
Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division
Mr Paul McLeod Cross (AM) for significant service to the arts, and to secondary education.
National Gallery of Victoria
President's Counsellor, since 2019
Benefactor, current
Life Member, 2019.
Melbourne Opera
Principal Benefactor, current
Life Member, Friends of Melbourne Opera, 2018
Sponsor, John Fulford Prize, Herald Sun Aria.
National Trust of Victoria Foundation
Patron, Como Reimagined, current
Benefactor, current.
Arts Centre Melbourne
Principal Patron, current
Benefactor, current.
The Kings Trust Australia
Silver Patron, since 2019
Benefactor, current
Benefactor, Achieve Rebuild Program
Sponsor, Paul Cross Educator of the Year Award.
Philanthropy
Director, Barry Janes and Paul Cross Foundation, current
Benefactor, the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra, current
Benefactor, the Australian Ballet, Les Etoiles, current
Benefactor, Aikenhead Centre for Medical Discovery, St Vincent’s Foundation Victoria.
Education
Geography Teachers' Association of Victoria
Vice President, 2021-2023
Management Committee Member, 2020-2024
Committee Member, Resources and Projects, current
Workshop Presenter, author and consultant, current.
St Catherine’s School
Deputy Principal, 2006-2015
Head of Senior School, 2006-2015
Geography Teacher, 2006-2018.
St Michael’s Grammar School
Dean of Co-Curriculum, 2001-2006
Head of Lower School, Years 7 to 9, 1995-2000
Associate Teacher, School of Curriculum Teaching and Inclusive Education, Faculty of Education.
Monash University, since 2019
Education Consultant, Self-employed, since 2018.
Publications
Co-Author, Geography as a Learning Area, Teaching Humanities and Social Science, Cengage,
2025
Author of more than 20 articles, primarily for Geography Teachers' Association of Victoria, 2013
2024.
Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division
Dr Kevin John Cameron (OAM) for service to music, and to education.
National Band Council of Australia
President, 2009-2013
Vice President, 2019-2021
Victorian Councillor, 2018-2021
South Australian Councillor, 2008-2009
Former Member, Music Advisory Board
Adjudicator, National Band Championships, 2011, 2016, 2017
Recipient, 25 Year Service Award, 2008.
Victorian Bands' League
President, 2018-2020
Adjudicator, Victorian Band Championships, 2016
Adjudicator, various regional band competitions.
South Australian Band Association
President, 2008-2012
Vice-President, 2006-2008
Life Member, 2014
Recipient, Award of Merit, 2006
Adjudicator, South Australian Band Championships, 2003, 2025
Former Adjudicator, various regional band competitions
Unley Concert Band
Music Director, 2001-2013
Life Member, 2012.
Music Roles - Other
Music Director, City of Traralgon Band, since 2024
Director - Professional Development and Education, Maestros with a Mission Consultancy, 2018
2023
Music Director of the New Zealand Youth Symphonic Winds, 2019-2023
Music Director, Geelong Concert Band, 2019-2020
Music Director, Melbourne Conservatorium of Music Wind Symphony, 2014-2019
Musical Director, Geelong Community Concert Band, 2014-2015
Musical Director, Sunshine Community Brass, 2013-2014
Music Director, Kensington and Norwood City Band, 2011-2013
Music Director, Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra, Adelaide, 2011-2013
Board Member, Music Council of Australia, 2009-2012
Director of Music, Woodville Concert Choir, 2010-2013
Convenor, Orchestras Australia - SA Chapter, 2006-2008
Board Member, Orchestras Australia Inc, 2007
Music Director, Hahndorf Town Band, 2001-2006
Member, Australian Society for Music Education Council - SA Chapter, 2002-2003
Assistant Conductor, Sydney Symphony Orchestra, 1997
Musical Director, Perth Discovery Choir, 1994-1995
Musical Director, Burwood Band, 1992-1994
Upper Hunter Conservatorium of Music
Artistic Director, Upper Hunter Conservatorium of Music, 1997-1999
Board Member (ex officio), Upper Hunter Conservatorium of Music, 1997-1999.
Education
The University of Newcastle
Lecturer in Music, 1996-1998
Music Director, Choir, 1997-1999
Music Director, University Symphony Orchestra, 1996-1998
Music Director, Newcastle University Choir, 1997-1999
Teaching Roles - Other
Director of Perorming Arts, Gippsland Grammar, since 2021
Coordinator of Middle School Curriculum and Cocurricular Music, Geelong Grammar School, 2013
2017
Head of Music, Unity College, 2009-2013
Director of Music, Pembroke School, 2001-2008
Adjunct Lecturer, Music Education, Latrobe University, 2005-2006
Music Teacher and Orchestra Conductor, Sydney Church of England Girls Grammar School
Redlands, 2000.
Teacher, St Joseph’s College, Aberdeen, 1999.
Former Music Director, Murdoch University.
Publications
Author, Fifty Flecks of Gold - Life Lessons For Those Who Lead, 2024.