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| 1 Feb 2026 | |
| Written by Will Ward | |
| Ex-Ressies |
John XXIII College warmly congratulates alumnus and former resident Seb Robertson on being awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to community health and to aerial science as part of the 2026 Australia Day Honours.
Seb’s recognition reflects more than a decade of national and international leadership at the intersection of mental health advocacy, technology and community service. A former College President (2007), Seb has continued his connection to Johns through his service on the JERA Committee, exemplifying the values of leadership and service that define our community.
Seb is best known as the Founder and former CEO of batyr, the pioneering youth mental health organisation that has transformed conversations around mental illness through lived-experience storytelling. As Chair of batyr from 2016 to 2023, Seb helped guide the organisation through a period of significant growth and impact, reaching hundreds of thousands of young people across Australia.
His contribution to mental health advocacy has also included roles with the NEXUS Global Mental Health Council, Australians for Mental Health, and the National Mental Health Leaders Project, as well as representing Australia at global youth and peace forums, including the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Perth in 2010.
Alongside this work, Seb has built an impressive career in aerial and earth observation science. He is the Co-Founder and CEO of Birdi, President of Earth Observation Australia, and serves on advisory boards and committees across Australia and the UK, contributing to innovation in environmental monitoring, energy and digital twin technologies.
Seb’s long record of service has previously been recognised through numerous awards, including ANU Young Alumnus of the Year (2013), Sydney Social Entrepreneur of the Year (2011) and the Richard Walker-Powell Award.
This OAM is a fitting acknowledgement of Seb’s sustained commitment to improving community wellbeing, advancing science and technology, and leading with purpose. The College community is immensely proud of Seb’s achievements and the example he continues to set for current and future residents.
Congratulations, Seb.
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