The Australian Federation of AIDS Organisations has paid tribute to six leaders of the community-led HIV response who have been recognised in the Australia Day 2019 Honours list.

Mark Orr, AFAO’s Vice President, was recognised for significant service to community health as a Member in the General Division (AM). As well as being a member of the AFAO board, Mark is the immediate past president of AFAO member organisation, ACON.

Annie Madden, a tireless advocate for evidence-based public health policy and harm reduction was also made an Officer in the General Division (AO). Annie was chief executive of the Australian Injecting and Illicit Drug Users League for 16 years.

Graeme Head, a long-standing senior public servant in New South Wales, was appointed as an officer in the General Division (AO) for distinguished service to public administration, to diversity employment initiatives, and to environmental protection.

Professor Sharon Lewin, one of the world’s foremost HIV cure researchers was made an Officer in the General Division (AO). Sharon is the director of the Doherty Institute.

Professor Margaret Hellard, an infectious diseases physician and research scientist, was recognised as a Member in the General Division (AM).

Professor Jenny Hoy, an infectious diseases physician and HIV clinical researcher, was recognised as a Member in the General Division (AM).

“One reason Australia’s HIV response is globally recognised is the quality of the people who drive it,” said AFAO President, Robert Griew.

“Mark Orr, Annie Madden, Graeme Head, Sharon Lewin, Margaret Hellard and Jenny Hoy exemplify the spirit, determination and intelligence that has characterised the Australian HIV response.

“Our other strength is Australia’s HIV partnership, which enables ongoing collaboration between community, governments, research and specialist physicians to ensure Australia’s HIV response remains relevant and effective.

“Each of the six leaders also exemplify this commitment to partnership that is adaptive, relevant and sensitive to the needs of priority populations.”

“It is gratifying to see their work recognised and we pay tribute to them.”

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