Hugh Jackman gets Companion of the Order of Australia in Canberra

Hugh Jackman has been awarded Australia’s highest civilian honour, joining the likes of Sir Don Bradman and John Howard. SEE WHO ELSE MADE THE LIST

Hugh Jackman has paid tribute to his “countless teachers and mentors” as he was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia in Canberra today.

The Australian actor said he was “very honoured and very humbled” to be awarded Australia’s highest civilian honour but thanked his family and everyone who had supported him over the years.

“On this occasion, I am reminded that I share the incredible honor with my parents, my siblings, my friends and, especially, with Deb, Oscar and Ava,” Jackman said on Twitter after the official service at Government House.

“There are countless teachers, coaches and mentors who have taught and inspired me along the way.

“I will forever be in their debt.

“It is humbling to be amongst so many great Australians who have outstanding achievements in so many fields.

“Thank you to the Governor General.”

Earlier, a beaming Jackman cast smiles at wife Deborra-lee Furness and high-fived best mate Gus Worland as he was honoured for eminent service to the performing arts.

Hugh Jackman being appointed a Companion in the General Division by the Governor-general David Hurley, during investiture ceremony at Government House in Canberra. Picture: Kym Smith

The Hollywood star was described as a “genuine triple threat” and “one of the nation’s most visible talents” as he was celebrated for his performances on stage and screen, in roles such as Wolverine in the X-Men films and as Peter Allen in The Boy From Oz stage play.

Jackman has also had starring roles in Les Miserable, Australia, Kate and Leopold and The Greatest Showman.

He joins fellow eminent Australian actor Cate Blanchett as a Companion of the Order.

Jackman was also honoured for his philanthropic efforts, particularly as an advocate for poverty eradication as an ambassador for World Vision Australia, a long-time benefactor for the Fight Cancer Foundation, an ambassador of Adopt Change and a co-founder of the Laughing Man Foundation and Laughing Man Coffee.

Hugh Jackman being appointed a Companion in the General Division by the Governor-general David Hurley, during investiture ceremony at Government House in Canberra. Picture: Kym Smith

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ABC Chair Ita Buttrose was also officially appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia in Canberra this week, along with former deputy prime minister Warren Truss, former Federal Court judge Dr Annabelle Bennett, eminent scientist Professor Alan Cowman, neurophysiology

professor David Burke, chemistry professor Leo Radom, former Defence Department boss Dennis Richardson, Emeritus Professor Maree Smith, High Court judge, Justice Geoffrey Nettle, and former Australian Council of Trade Unions president Sharan Burrow.

Hugh Jackman was one of many who received their reports today. Picture: Kym Smith

SEE WHO ELSE MADE THE LIST

Originally published as Hugh Jackman gets Companion of the Order of Australia in Canberra