Two remarkable First Nations women were among those that have been honoured for their work serving the community in the King's Birthday Honours, announced Sunday night.

Ngunnawal Elder Caroline Hughes was acknowledged for significant service to the Indigenous community of Canberra.

"The greatest thing for me is empowering others to discover what they have within themselves to achieve their dreams," she said,

Ms Hughes has consistently championed the importance of education and its transformative power.

"Being able to empower thousands of Indigenous people to achieve their own success through education has been rewarding. Education encourages them to raise their own voices to break down barriers – creating positive ripple effects for society," she said.

Ms Hughes has also worked to reduce the impact of child protection practices on First Nations families. Implementing early learning programs for babies and children whose parents are studying nearby is another powerful tool, modelling behaviours that have benefits for all.

"I've witnessed people of all ages – teenagers and Elders – who had thought education was not for them. Yet they have achieved their goal and strived for more. I've seen staff thrive in positive and engaging workplaces. I love encouraging and inspiring others, empowering them in their choices and celebrating them when they reach their goals," she said.

Despite her tireless support for others, Ms Hughes noted that she has also faced adversity.

"I've suffered racism and discrimination for being Ngunnawal and as a woman. So I feel humble and shocked that someone thought so highly of me to nominate me," she said.

"I want to thank my husband Michael and children Tara and Mitchell. Their love and years of supporting me, whilst I supported others, have buoyed me up. Without them, I couldn't do what I do.

"Djan yimaba – thank you to the person who nominated me for this honour. I know there are many others who deserve this."

Sylvia Fay Stewart-Muir, from Thomson, Victoria, was honoured for service to the Indigenous community of Victoria.

Caring for her culture and her community led to Fay Stewart-Muir being awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).

Ms Stewart-Muir identifies two areas of her service to the Indigenous community of Victoria: bringing the lived experience of an Indigenous person into school classrooms in her region; and supporting Indigenous people in the prison system.

"For too long our education system has denied all students the opportunity to learn about the full history of this country. Both cohorts – students and teachers – need to hear stories of Indigenous people from a lived experience," she said.

"Working as a Cultural Educator in schools opens a dialogue and helps students and teachers to learn more about Indigenous Culture and history – first-hand, from an Indigenous person."

Visiting people in prison is the other aspect of Ms Stewart-Muir's community work that she considers has a positive impact.

"Being a Koori Independent Prison Visitor (KIPV) also gives me reason to get up in the morning," she said.

"Showing our people that when they come before the Magistrate that an Elder cares about them is important. I get great satisfaction if I know I am going to see the men inside to chat with them and listen to their problems. And for them to have my ear and one on one time if that is what they need."

While disbelief was her first reaction to hearing of her recognition through the Order of Australia, Ms Stewart-Muir said it was a momentous occasion.

"I would like to thank the nominator from the bottom of my heart. I do not know who it is but thank you," she said.

In addition, Dushyanthi Thangiah from Annandale, Queensland, was acknowledged for her work to close the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

She was honoured service to the community through social welfare organisations.

Ms Thangiah works to ensure the provision of culturally appropriate service responses to those who come to social welfare organisations for support.

"That allows clients to take positive control of their lives. My volunteer work helps build resilience in culturally diverse communities," she said.

"Community work runs in my blood. My mother and sisters are all in it. Working for the community gives me a real sense of purpose and keeps me grounded. I genuinely feel blessed to have the life I have been granted and be able to do the work I have been chosen to do."

The idea of being awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia was definitely a surprise, she said.

"I am still trying to process it. It is such a prestigious award.

"Thanks to my parents for raising me with sound values, my husband, daughters, sisters and my extended family who believe in my ability to make a change. And my mentors Dr Ernest Hoolihan and Shri Angajan who have guided me through my life journey."

She also acknowledged the Yumba-Meta board and management for their support.

More Honours coverage to come.