Professor Fadia Ghossayn is the first woman born in Lebanon to be made a Member of The Order of Australia.
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA: On the occasion of Australia Day (26 January 2017) Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of Australia and Sovereign of the Order of Australia, through General Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC, Governor-General of Australia, appoints Professor Fadia Bou Dagher Ghossayn as a Member of the Order of Australia.
The Order of Australia was established in 1975 to recognise Australian citizens for their achievement or meritorious service. Professor Fadia is the first woman born in Lebanon to be Honoured with an Order of Australia Medal at the ‘Member Level’ that would entitle Prof Fadia to use the initials ‘AM’ after her name.
In accepting this Award, Prof Fadia thanked her husband, Mr George Ghossayn OAM, and she said, ‘This award is a symbol and a message to Australian Lebanese citizens. I urge my fellow Australians who have roots in Lebanon, to open their heart and engage in this remarkable society of ours. I accept this Honour on behalf of the many supporters in my team who have worked tirelessly to assist me to make a difference in people’s lives. It is our duty to give back to this Country, so that we can keep the flame of hope alive for those with the potential to make Australia an even greater nation. While I work with citizens from all walks of life, I am especially proud of the efforts of the Australian Lebanese citizens who shine by their efforts, talent, and generosity.’
Prof Fadia was on HMAS Canberra (the largest military ship ever built for the Royal Australian Navy) at the invitation of the Premier of New South Wales, when the news of her Membership was made public by the Governor-General.
The investiture ceremony will take place at Government House later this year.
