FORMER QLD PREMIER ANNASTACIA PALASZCZUK RECEIVES HIGHEST AUSTRALIA DAY HONOUR

Three-time Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has received the highest honour on Australia Day 2026 for her services to the country, being awarded with a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) by the Governor-General for her significant service and longstanding contributions to the people of Queensland.

The AC is the nation's highest civilian honour, awarded to individuals who have demonstrated eminent achievement and merit of the highest degree in service to Australia or humanity at large.

Ms Palaszczuk served as Queensland's 39th Premier from 2015 to 2023, becoming one of the state's longest‑serving leaders. Her tenure was marked by major economic, social, and infrastructure reforms, as well as her leadership through natural disasters and the COVID‑19 pandemic.

In accepting the honour, Ms Palaszczuk said the recognition was deeply meaningful.

"Serving the people of Queensland has been the privilege of my life. This honour reflects the dedication of countless public servants, frontline workers, and community leaders who stood with me through every challenge and every achievement."

Throughout her career, Ms Palaszczuk championed education, health, regional development, and social inclusion. Her government delivered major infrastructure projects, expanded frontline services, and strengthened Queensland's international profile ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The AC appointment acknowledges her contributions across more than two decades in public life, including her work as a minister, opposition leader, and ultimately Premier.

The news comes after Annastacia announced she will release her long-awaited memoir, Annastacia Palaszczuk: The Politics of Being Me' via Harper Collins on the 28th of April this year which will outline her history-making appointment as the first woman to win the premiership of Queensland from opposition, followed by a further three consecutive terms in the position.

As Premier, Annastacia steered Queensland through challenges like the global COVID-19 pandemic, the devastating 2022 floods, and the triumphant bid to host the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

In her book, she will also outline personal challenges with topics like IVF, and relentless public scrutiny.

Today, Annastacia is a successful political commentator, sits on multiple boards including Australia Post, and is a regular on the speaking circuit.

TO INTERVIEW ANNASTACIA PALASZCZUK OR BOOK A SPEAKING ENGAGEMENT AHEAD OF INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY, email mailto:marta@marksonsparks.com or call Marta Wiacek on 0409 291 785 or email mailto:max@marksonsparks.com or call Max Markson on 0412 501 601.

Marta Wiacek

0409 291 785