Australia cancels titles of knights and dames

A significant change in Australian honors!

On June 5, 2019, the Australian government announced that it would be abolishing the titles of knights and dames, effective from January 2020. This decision was made as part of a broader review of the Australian honors system.

The titles of knight and dame were previously conferred upon individuals who had made significant contributions to Australian society, such as in the fields of science, arts, and public service. However, the government felt that the titles had become outdated and were no longer relevant in modern Australia.

Instead of knights and dames, the government will introduce a new honors system that will focus on recognizing individuals' achievements through the conferment of Companion, Officer, and Member of the Order of Australia (AC, AO, and AM) awards. These awards will continue to be conferred upon individuals who have made significant contributions to Australian society, but without the titles of knight and dame.

The decision to abolish the titles of knight and dame was seen as a way to modernize the Australian honors system and make it more inclusive and relevant to contemporary Australian society. It was also seen as a way to reduce the costs associated with conferring and maintaining the titles, which were estimated to be around AU$1 million per year.

The change has been welcomed by many, including some who felt that the titles were outdated and elitist. However, others have expressed disappointment and concern that the abolition of the titles will lead to a loss of tradition and cultural heritage.

Overall, the abolition of the titles of knight and dame marks a significant change in the Australian honors system, and it will be interesting to see how the new system evolves and is received by the Australian public.