Published 9 June 2025
Royal Life Saving Australia congratulates Jo-ann Morris and Michael Morris on being awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for their service to the community through charitable organisations.
The award recognises nearly two decades of tireless advocacy following the non-fatal drowning of their much-loved son Samuel in 2006, and his passing in 2014 due to ongoing complications from his non-fatal drowning injuries. Motivated by personal tragedy, Jo-ann and Michael established the Samuel Morris Foundation, becoming powerful advocates for children with disabilities and families impacted by non-fatal drowning.
Their impact has been far-reaching across the charitable, health and water safety sectors. Through their work with Sydney Children's Hospitals Network, Jo-ann and Michael have been instrumental in bringing lived experience into policy development, consumer engagement, and the shift towards value-based care. They have served on state and national committees, contributed to global health outcome frameworks, and helped shape more inclusive and responsive health systems.
Royal Life Saving is proud to have worked alongside Jo-ann and Michael on initiatives to improve drowning data, highlight the long-term impacts of non-fatal incidents, advocate for policy change, and connect their lived experience with national and international water safety strategies.
Their contributions have helped ensure that the voices of survivors and families are heard in the push for better prevention, support, and understanding of drowning in all its forms.
Their work has informed the Australian Water Safety Strategy, contributed to strengthened pool safety laws, and inspired change at many levels. Internationally, Samuel’s story helped to prompt the World Health Organisation to increase science and advocacy directed at non-fatal drowning, and the United Nations Resolution on drowning recognises the wider impacts on families
Michael and Jo-ann continue to show remarkable resilience, humility and a steely resolve to ensure that Samuel's legacy continues with local, national and global drowning prevention and water safety communities.
We warmly congratulate Jo-ann and Michael on this well-deserved recognition, and we thank them for their continued leadership, compassion and commitment to change.
Further Information - The Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia
The King’s Birthday 2025 Honours List recognises 830 Australians, including awards in the Order of Australia (General and Military Divisions), meritorious awards and recognition for distinguished and conspicuous service.
