From Sri Lanka to Shepparton: Sam Atukorala’s Journey Recognized with the Medal of the Order of Australia
Over the last two decades, Sri Lankan‑born Australian community leader Sam Atukorala has become the voice for multicultural communities across regional Victoria.
His initiatives, driven by resilience, service and a deep commitment to social cohesion, have recently earned him another significant honour: the Medal of the Order of Australia.
Looking back, the current Chief Executive Officer of the Ethnic Council of Shepparton and District Inc see in his journey from Sri Lanka to Australia a collection of enduring deeds that have defined his life.
His Medal of the Order of Australia now sits alongside the Greater Shepparton Citizen of the Year Award, the Cricket Australia Community Ambassador of the Year Award, and his place as an inaugural inductee of the Victorian Multicultural Honour Roll.
The foundations of Sam’s work have helped build one of the country’s most successful examples of regional multicultural inclusion, spanning settlement support services, emergency relief, employment pathways and leadership development programs.
“A core focus of my work has been ensuring that culturally and linguistically diverse communities are not only supported to settle, but are empowered to participate fully, confidently, and meaningfully in all aspects of community life,” Mr Atukorala says.
“Over time, I have witnessed meaningful and lasting impact, including individuals and families building stable and confident lives, young people stepping into leadership roles, and stronger trust and collaboration between multicultural communities and mainstream services. These outcomes reflect collective effort, shared commitment, and the strength of working together.”
Receiving the Order of Australia Medal is, according to Mr Atukorala, a deeply humbling experience. He rules out the idea of an individual achievement and emphasizes the many communities, colleagues, volunteers, and partners he has had the privilege to work alongside.
“For the community I serve, I hope this recognition reinforces the importance and value of multicultural communities, particularly in regional Australia. It highlights that lived experience is a powerful form of leadership and that diversity strengthens the social, cultural, and economic fabric of our nation.”
Mr Atukorala is the only Sri Lankan Australian to receive this honor in 2026, joining many distinguished Sri Lankans who have previously been recognized with this award over the years.
“The message I hope this recognition sends is simple but important. Multicultural leadership matters. When people are given opportunity, respect, and genuine inclusion, they contribute in powerful ways to building stronger, more resilient, and more united communities across Australia.”
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