Several respected figures from Australia’s transport and logistics sector have been recognised in the 2026 Australia Day Honours, acknowledging decades of contribution to an industry that underpins the national economy.
The annual honours list recognises more than 900 Australians for outstanding service across a wide range of fields, including transport, infrastructure, logistics, and community leadership.
National Recognition for Transport Leadership
Paul Darren Scurrah (NSW) was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to the transport, logistics, and freight industry.
With more than 25 years of executive experience across aviation, rail, ports, and logistics, Scurrah is one of Australia’s most influential transport leaders. His career has included senior leadership roles as CEO of Virgin Australia and Queensland Rail, along with executive positions at DP World Australia and other major operators.
Currently serving as a Director with the Australasian Railway Association and holding multiple board roles, his recognition reflects decades of leadership shaping freight networks, infrastructure development, workforce capability, and national connectivity across the transport supply chain.
Industry bodies have noted that his career has helped modernise Australia’s freight systems, strengthening links between ports, rail corridors, logistics hubs, and the communities they serve.
Honouring Road Transport at the Coalface
Maxwell James Luff (NSW) was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to the road transport industry and to the community.
Luff is widely recognised as the founder of Border Express, which he built from modest beginnings into a nationally recognised transport operator. His career spans more than six decades and reflects a lifelong commitment to professionalism, safety, and people within the road freight sector.
Previously named Australian Freight and Logistics Personality of the Year, his Australia Day honour recognises a legacy that has shaped road transport operations and inspired generations of industry participants.
Broader Contributions to Transport and Infrastructure
The honours list also recognised leaders whose work has influenced transport beyond operations alone.
Dr Gillian Eileen Miles OAM was acknowledged for significant service to the transport and infrastructure sectors, particularly through leadership in policy, planning, and governance. Her work has contributed to safer, more efficient, and more sustainable transport outcomes for both industry and the wider community.
Paula Fox was recognised for eminent service through philanthropy, governance, and leadership across multiple sectors, including contributions that support resilient industries such as transport and logistics. Her recognition highlights the importance of strong governance and community investment in sustaining critical national infrastructure.
Why This Matters for the Industry
These honours come at a time when Australia’s transport and freight sectors are facing increasing pressure from rising freight demand, workforce shortages, infrastructure constraints, and the need to adapt to new technologies and sustainability expectations.
The recognition of leaders across road, rail, logistics, and infrastructure reinforces the importance of long-term thinking, collaboration, and leadership that balances operational performance with safety, community impact, and national productivity.
A Moment to Acknowledge the Industry
At Logbook Checker, we see these honours as recognition not just of individuals, but of the broader transport industry and the people who keep Australia moving every day.
From drivers and operators to planners, executives, and community leaders, the sector relies on experience, accountability, and leadership at every level. These awards highlight the impact that strong leadership can have on building safer, more resilient freight and transport systems for the future.