Arts Stars Honoured on Australia Day

Big stars of the stage and screen have been honoured this Australia Day including Hugo Weaving, Caroline O'Connor, Tim Minchin, Kate Mulvany, Jane Turner, Rachel Griffiths, Paul Mercurio, Heather Mitchell, Peter Combe and Wesley Enoch.

Achieving the highest honour, (AO) Officer in the General Division in the Order of Australia, was actor Hugo Weaving. He was recognised for distinguished service to the performing arts as an actor, and as a mentor to young writers, directors and film makers.

A number of artists are new members (AM) in the General Division of the Order of Australia.

Wesley Enoch, the current artistic director of the Sydney Festival, was honored for significant service to the performing arts as an indigenous director and playwright.

Choreographer and dancer Paul Mercurio, who shot to international fame as the star of the movie Strictly Ballroom, was honoured his services to dance.

Actor Heather Mitchell received an AM for services to the performing arts and the community.

Film star Rachel Griffiths was honoured for significant services to the performing arts as an actor.

Dancing/sing icon icon Caroline O'Connor was recognised for significant services to musical theatre.

Playwright and actor Kate Mulvany was recognised for her service to the performing arts.

Kath and Kim star Jane Turner was honoured for services to the performing arts as a writer, actor and comedian.

Michael Tyack was honoured for significant service to the performing arts as a musical director.

Songwriter and perfomer Peter Combe was honoured for his services to music for children.

Performer and composer Tim Minchin was honoured for services to the performing arts and the community.

Noelene Brown for services to the performer arts as an actor and entertainer.

Carlotta Spencer for services to the performing arts and LGBTIQ community.

Also in the Australia Day honours were people working behind the scenes.

Rachael Maza for services as an artistic director.

Julie Kantor from Melbourne received the OA for services to arts philanthropy.

Kevin Booth was honoured in NSW for his services to the community including the Gosford Musical Society.