Stephen O'Doherty Honoured with Medal of the Order of Australia
We extend our congratulations to Stephen O'Doherty, a passionate advocate for music and arts, former NSW Shadow Minister for Education and Training, and an inaugural member of the Music Education: Right from the Start Advisory Group, on receiving a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM). This prestigious recognition, part of the 2024 King's Birthday Honours list, celebrates his outstanding service to the community through various organisations.
Champion of Education and Music
Stephen's passion for music and education has been a driving force throughout his life. A seasoned musician and former music tutor, he has conducted community bands for over four decades and currently serves as the musical director of the Golden Kangaroos Hornsby Concert Band in Sydney's north.
His advocacy for music education led to the establishment of The Roundtable of Instrumental, Vocal, and Music Education Organisations (RIVMEO) in September 2020, a collaborative effort uniting more than a dozen peak organisations and institutions aimed at safeguarding music educators and education during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As an inaugural member of our Music Education: Right from the Start initiative's Advisory Group, his long-term advocacy has been invaluable. Stephen has been engaged since the first consultative processes, bringing his vast experience to bear on our strategy, policy positions, and advocacy efforts.
Stephen is also the Principal of a consultancy providing strategic communications and music services.
A Dynamic Background
Stephen's career spans media, public policy, education, and the arts. As the inaugural CEO of Christian Schools Australia, he was a key advocate for faith-based schools for 15 years. Prior to this, he served a decade in the NSW Parliament, where he held prominent roles such as Shadow Treasurer, Shadow Minister for Community Services and Disability Services, and Shadow Minister for Education and Training.
Beginning his career in journalism, Stephen made his mark in commercial radio in Sydney. Today, he chairs Hope 1032 in Sydney and 96five in Brisbane, two of Australia's largest Christian community broadcasting stations. He also holds governance roles with Christian Media & Arts Australia and Excelsia College and is a member of the Community Broadcasting Roundtable. Additionally, the father of two adult children, Stephen serves as Chair of the board of Hope Media and as a patron of Studio ARTES, an NDIS-registered service providing creative and life-enhancing experiences for adults with disabilities.
Alberts and the Music Education: Right from the Start project team extend our heartfelt congratulations to Stephen for this well-deserved honour. His tireless dedication, leadership, and advocacy continue to inspire and make a lasting impact on our initiative and beyond.
