Australian Leaders in Diabetes Care and First Nations Health Recognized in 2026 Australia Day Honours
Australians working across diabetes care, endocrinology, vascular medicine, and First Nations health have been recognized in the 2026 Australia Day Honours. These awards acknowledge the depth of expertise addressing diabetes, a significant health challenge in Australia.
The 2026 Australia Day Honours celebrate individuals whose dedication is significantly impacting diabetes care, cardiovascular health, and culturally safe health services across Australia, particularly in rural and Indigenous communities.
Professor Shirley Jansen AM: Contributions to Vascular Surgery and Cardiovascular Science
Professor Shirley Jansen of Western Australia was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia. Her recognition is for significant contributions to vascular surgery and cardiovascular science.
Professor Jansen holds the position of Professor of Vascular Surgery and serves as Director of the Heart and Vascular Research Institute at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital. She also co-leads Cardiovascular Science and Diabetes at the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research. Her extensive work primarily focuses on the critical intersection of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and clinical research.
Floyd Leedie AM: Service to Indigenous Health in Queensland
Queensland health leader Floyd Leedie has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia. This honour acknowledges his dedicated service to Indigenous health in Queensland.
As CEO of Goondir Health Service since 2008, Mr. Leedie has been instrumental in leading the delivery of culturally safe primary health care across regional Queensland. His leadership has been vital in supporting communities where diabetes prevalence and associated complications are notably high.
Dr. Kunwarjit Singh Sangla AM: Expanding Specialist Diabetes Care in Rural Queensland
Dr. Kunwarjit Singh Sangla of Queensland was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia. His award is for distinguished service to endocrinology and to rural and Indigenous communities in Queensland.
For more than 25 years, Dr. Sangla has provided essential specialist diabetes care through face-to-face outreach clinics across Central, West, and North Queensland. This vital work is complemented by telehealth services and ongoing clinical support. His unwavering commitment has significantly expanded access to specialist care in remote parts of the state.
Shirley Brown PSM: Outstanding Service in Aboriginal Chronic Care Nursing
In New South Wales, Shirley Brown was awarded the Public Service Medal. She was recognized for her outstanding public service in nursing and chronic care services.
Ms. Brown is an Aboriginal Chronic Care nurse with Western Sydney Local Health District. She works specifically at the Mount Druitt Community Health Centre Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Monday Clinic. Here, she delivers culturally appropriate diabetes care and provides long-term support to her community.