From cancer immunology to community leadership and naval strategy, Australians with Hellenic heritage have once again made their mark in the King’s Birthday 2025 Honours List.
Released by Governor-General Sam Mostyn AC, the list recognises 830 Australians for their service and achievements—among them, at least 13 individuals of Hellenic heritage whose contributions span medical research, public service, police work, sport, multicultural advocacy, and business innovation.
These honourees not only reflect the enduring legacy of Hellenes in Australian life, but also underscore their growing impact across diverse sectors of public and civic engagement.
Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division
Professor Vasso Apostolopoulos AM, Victoria
Professor Vasso Apostolopoulos, a globally recognised immunologist of Greek descent, has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for her significant service to medical research, particularly in the field of immunology.
She currently serves as Distinguished Professor and Director of Healthy Lifespan and Chronic Diseases at RMIT University. Over the course of her prolific career, she has held leadership roles at Victoria University including Vice President of Research and Deputy Vice-Chancellor.
Professor Apostolopoulos has spearheaded groundbreaking work in cancer immunology and vaccine development and contributed to multiple national and international research boards, including the Rebecca L Cooper Medical Research Foundation and Genexine Inc.
She is an editor for several leading journals in the field and has been recognised with numerous accolades, including the Victorian Young Australian of the Year Award (1997), induction into the Victorian Honour Roll of Women (2004), and the Commander Order of the Phoenix from the President of Greece (1997).
“Receiving the Order of Australia Medal (AM) is an incredible honour and very exciting. It recognises the years I’ve dedicated to medical research, understanding disease mechanisms, developing vaccines, advancing immunotherapy, and working to improve health outcomes for people around the world,” Professor Apostolopoulos told The Greek Herald.
“My Greek heritage has always been my foundation. The strength, resilience, and determination I saw in my parents as migrants inspired me to push boundaries and ‘never give up’.
“This award isn’t just about me, it’s about the institutes, universities and communities I’ve worked for, the students and researchers I’ve mentored, and the fact that science can and does change lives. I’m proud, grateful, and deeply moved.”
James Demetriou AM, Victoria
James Demetriou has been honoured with a Member of the Order of Australia for his significant contributions to sport, education, and business innovation. Of Greek-Cypriot heritage, Demetriou has long championed multicultural inclusion and entrepreneurship.
He was the founding chair of the Australian Sports Technologies Network, where he fostered innovation in sports science and tech over a decade. He also established Sports Without Borders in 2006, a charity designed to promote sporting opportunities for young migrants and refugees.
His academic contributions include roles at Swinburne University’s Australian Graduate School of Entrepreneurship and the University of Melbourne. Demetriou has held leadership roles at Monash University’s Food Innovation Centre and contributed to policy through his work with “Born Global or Die Local,” an entrepreneurial training program.
His extensive community engagement includes serving as a director at Essendon Football Club and as a City of Coburg Councillor. His work reflects a lifelong commitment to equity, innovation, and civic leadership.
“I was a bit surprised and very humbled to be awarded. It’s really a culmination of everything I’ve done — whether that’s with migrant youth through Sports Without Borders, or as founding chair of the Australian Sports Tech Network, which started small and is now a $5.25 billion sector. It’s also a testimony to how inclusive sport and education are in Australia,” Mr Demetriou told The Greek Herald.
“My parents migrated from Cyprus in 1950 and 1951. This honour is a way to thank them for the sacrifices they made so we could give back and thrive in this country.”
Dr Irene Ioannakis AM, Western Australia
Dr Irene Ioannakis has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her outstanding service to vocational education and training, particularly in Western Australia.
With a career spanning decades in both the public and private sectors, Ioannakis has held senior roles including Deputy Chief Commissioner of the Australian Skills Quality Authority and Director at the Motor Trade Association of WA.
As CEO of her consultancy, Ioannakis and Associates, she has guided strategic education projects across the country. Her leadership extended into industry, with executive roles at Chevron Australia, GE Oil and Gas, WesTrac, and the Chamber of Minerals and Energy of WA. She has also sat on numerous advisory boards for TAFE institutions and universities.
Dr Ioannakis’ service has shaped the skills development landscape in Australia, particularly in integrating business needs with vocational training, and she remains a committed advocate for excellence in workforce education.
“I am extremely honoured to receive this significant award and be recognised for my contribution in ensuring quality outcomes in the vocational education and training (VET) sector and for the opportunity to positively influence many aspiring individuals during the course of my career,” Dr Ioannakis told The Greek Herald.
“I am a very proud first generation Greek who was raised to work hard and follow my passion which continues today as I give back and support others just as a significant number of people supported me in my journey.”
Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division
The late Georgia Alexandrou OAM, Australian Capital Territory
The late Georgia Alexandrou, a stalwart of the Greek and Cypriot communities in Canberra, was posthumously awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for her decades-long service to multicultural and community affairs.
As President of the Cyprus Community of Canberra and ACT for over 20 years, Alexandrou helped nurture cultural identity and intergenerational unity. She was a driving force behind Canberra’s Greek Glendi and the Cyprus Kafeneio at the National Multicultural Festival.
Nationally, she served as Vice President and later President of the Pan Australian Justice for Cyprus Coordinating Committee (PASEKA), and contributed to the Australian Hellenic Council and the World Council for Hellenes Abroad.
Her leadership extended beyond advocacy to community empowerment, helping organise events, lobbying efforts, and cultural preservation projects. Her legacy continues to inspire younger generations of Hellenic Australians in Canberra and beyond.
Georgia’s husband Chris Alexandrou told The Greek Herald about her recognition: “It is something she would have cherished. She was honoured by the Republic of Cyprus in 2024 – the country where she was born – and now she’s being honoured by the country she spent most of her life in. It is an honour to me as well and to our son, Andreas.”
Mr Alexandrou added that Georgia was dedicated to the Cypriot cause, working tirelessly within Canberra to promote Cyprus reunification, and was respected among political circles.
Jim Ronis OAM, New South Wales
Veteran community leader and real estate professional Jim Ronis has received the Medal of the Order of Australia for his extensive contributions to Sydney’s Greek Australian and wider civic community.
Ronis is the long-standing managing director of Ronis Real Estate and has also served in leadership roles across sport, education, and civic engagement. He was a director and senior vice president of Football NSW, chair of its Futsal Committee, and life member since 2002.
In the Bankstown area, he co-founded St Euphemia College in Bankstown and served on the board of St Euphemia Greek Orthodox Church. Ronis also held executive roles at the Kalavryton Society, West Sydney Berries FC (formerly Canterbury-Marrickville Olympic and now Canterbury Bankstown Football Club), and Bankstown Sports Club.
A Justice of the Peace since 1963, he is a recipient of long service awards from both NSW Sports Federation and the Real Estate Institute of NSW. His lifelong dedication has strengthened the cohesion and development of Sydney’s Greek community.
“I am very proud,” Mr Ronis told The Greek Herald about his recognition. “I owe this to my parents who made me the person I am today. I also thank my family who have supported me throughout the years to be able to do what I love in the community. I didn’t expect this. I will treasure it for my whole life.”
Chris Gryllis OAM, New South Wales
Chris Gryllis, who immigrated from Patmos, Greece, in 1962, has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for his tireless service to the regional community of Orange, NSW. A respected real estate agent and long-time councillor on Orange City Council, Gryllis served as Deputy Mayor and chaired numerous committees, including Tidy Towns and Sister Cities.
He has been a key figure in fostering civic pride and environmental stewardship. Gryllis is also a past president of the Orange Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club of Orange, where he played a leading role in organising fundraising efforts and local business awards.
His philanthropic service spans decades, including volunteer work with the Salvation Army and deep involvement with the Greek Community of Orange and District. Honoured internationally with the Logohu Medal from PNG and twice named a Paul Harris Fellow by Rotary, Gryllis continues to promote Greek culture and community welfare.
Reflecting on his journey, Mr Gryllis told The Greek Herald: “I accept this honour very humbly and although it is in my name it belongs to all those who helped me over the years. I have been very lucky and blessed to spend most of my life in a city that I dearly love. Orange and its people have given me the opportunity to fulfil many of my dreams.”
Peter Satouris OAM, New South Wales
Sydney entrepreneur and philanthropist Peter Satouris has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for his contributions to the retail industry and community service.
As the founder of Peter’s of Kensington, Satouris built one of Australia’s most iconic homewares businesses, blending quality with personalised customer experience. His generosity has extended far beyond commerce—he is a significant benefactor of Sydney Children’s Hospital and Souths Cares, the charitable arm of the South Sydney Rabbitohs, whom he also sponsors.
A supporter of grassroots sport and Orthodox faith institutions, Satouris was appointed an Archon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate and awarded the Medal of the Order of Christ-loving. His torchbearing during the 2004 Olympic Games symbolised his dedication to Hellenic values and community.
With a deep sense of social responsibility, Satouris has become a role model for integrating business success with philanthropy.
Nick Thyssen (Theodossiadis) OAM, Victoria
Nick Thyssen, born Theodossiadis, has received the Medal of the Order of Australia for his distinguished service to business and manufacturing. A pioneering figure in Australia’s food and beverage sector, he co-founded several well-known companies including Patra Orange Juice, The Original Juice Company, Procal Dairies, and Ezy Chef Pty Ltd.
Over a 60-year career, he has been instrumental in the development of fresh food processing and beverage manufacturing, helping to shape a thriving industry both locally and nationally.
Thyssen is also a longtime supporter of the Greek Australian community, serving as a benefactor of the Hellenic Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and as a sponsor of football clubs such as South Melbourne Hellas and the Preston Lions.
His commitment to innovation and cultural pride has left a lasting impact across business and community sectors, making him a prominent role model for the Greek Australian entrepreneurial spirit.
The 90-year-old told The Greek Herald it was “very exciting” to “get an honour from the King.”
“It is a testament to what has been achieved,” Thyssen said. “I came here to Australia, I worked hard, no language, no money, it was hard for everybody. A lot of people gave up, but I took a lot of risks and had good results. I appreciate the honour given to me.”
Public Service Medals
Sarah Corinna Samios PSM, Australian Capital Territory
Sarah Samios has been awarded the Public Service Medal for her outstanding leadership in delivering one of the most significant legal reforms in Australia in recent decades: the replacement of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal with the new Administrative Review Tribunal (ART).
As First Assistant Secretary at the Attorney-General’s Department, Samios coordinated a complex reform process involving hundreds of stakeholders and government entities. Her efforts led to the recruitment of over 480 statutory appointees and a more transparent, efficient, and accessible system for administrative review.
Known for her sharp intellect and inclusive leadership style, Samios maintained focus on public engagement and institutional integrity throughout the two-year transformation. Her recognition demonstrates the influential role Greek Australians play in shaping the legal and civic landscape of the country.
Peter Apostolos Delibaltas PSM, Queensland
Peter Delibaltas, a senior public servant with Legal Aid Queensland, has received the Public Service Medal for his remarkable service in improving legal access for vulnerable and disadvantaged Queenslanders.
Over a career spanning 35 years, Delibaltas has held key leadership roles including Senior Director of Legal Practice. His work has helped shape youth justice reforms, mental health legal services, and the development of regional outreach programs. A passionate advocate for First Nations legal equity, he has overseen programs supporting young lawyers from Indigenous backgrounds and advanced equitable briefing practices.
Delibaltas also ensured uninterrupted delivery of legal services during crises such as COVID-19 lockdowns and natural disasters. His Hellenic roots are reflected in his dedication to community and public service, making him a beacon of justice and accessibility in the legal field.
“I’ve been recognised for my service to Legal Aid Queensland and supporting disadvantaged people across the community. It’s a great privilege to work for such an organisation and assist people with legal and justice problems,” Delibaltas told The Greek Herald about his recognition.
“I’m proud to be a Greek Australian. My parents came here and worked hard so I could better myself and have a prosperous career. Where I am today, I owe it to them,” Delibaltas said.
Australian Police Medals
Detective Chief Inspector Sotirios Courcoulos APM, New South Wales
Detective Chief Inspector Sotirios Courcoulos has been awarded the Australian Police Medal for his distinguished career in the NSW Police Force.
A member of the final class of NSW Police Cadets in 1977, Courcoulos has spent over four decades investigating major crimes, including high-profile murder cases, gang violence, and financial fraud. He has led specialist squads such as Strike Force Raptor and the Gangs Squad, contributing significantly to crime disruption strategies.
More recently, he has overseen child abuse investigations in South West Sydney, managing a team of 40 detectives tasked with addressing serious and complex abuse cases. Courcoulos is also committed to mentoring younger officers and developing operational best practices. His unwavering service reflects the strong values of community and justice often found among Greek Australians in public service.
Sergeant Joanna Maree Parissis APM, Victoria
Sergeant Joanna Parissis of Victoria Police has received the Australian Police Medal for her decades-long service focused on youth support and community engagement.
Over 30 years, she has worked in Melbourne’s inner-north, serving some of the city’s most diverse communities. Known for her proactive and compassionate approach, Parissis helped develop health and wellbeing programs in partnership with The Pavilion School and community events through Blue Light Victoria.
As a board member of Blue Light, she has expanded programs for youth engagement and led stakeholder partnerships to support at-risk young people. Her commitment to trust-building and empowerment within vulnerable communities has made her an exemplary figure in community policing.
Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the Military Division
Commodore Anthony Michael Klenthis CSC RAN AM
Commodore Anthony Michael Klenthis of the Royal Australian Navy has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (Military Division) for his exceptional leadership in workforce planning and strategic reform.
Over recent years, Klenthis has served as Director General Future Navy Workforce and Director General Workforce Design, playing a pivotal role in transforming the ADF’s personnel strategy to meet emerging capability and technology needs. He led the design of new workforce models, established transformational branches, and unified disparate teams under a shared vision for the future of Australia’s naval defence.
His contributions have directly supported Australia’s readiness and capability in a rapidly evolving security environment. His Greek heritage reflects a tradition of military service, innovation, and national loyalty that continues to strengthen Australia’s defence posture.
*Please note: If you have Hellenic heritage and are not on this list of Honours List recipients, please send an email to info@foreignlanguage.com.au.
