Tausif Khan OAM received the prestigious Order of Australia Medal (OAM) during the Australia Day Honours on January 26, 2026. Khan expressed his gratitude, stating, “It’s a great honour. I would like to thank the Australian Government and the Queensland Government for helping facilitate the activities and endeavours that have got me this award today.”
Khan’s journey began in Agra, India, from where he moved to the United Kingdom for higher studies. He earned a degree in data electronics at the onset of the information technology era. His career took him to Germany, where he met his wife, Renate. They have been married for 57 years and moved to Brisbane in 1986 to raise their family.
Throughout his career in the insurance industry, Khan cultivated an extensive network of professionals across India, Australia, and Europe. This network proved invaluable when India opened its economy in 1992. Khan aimed to foster a trade relationship between Queensland and India, a mission supported by the then Indian High Commissioner in Canberra, Akbar Khaleeli. He established the India Trade Centre, serving as its Chair from 1992 to 2008.
Community Engagement and Cultural Contributions
Khan is known for his ability to connect people, which has greatly benefited both the Indian and Chinese communities in Queensland. His language skills led to collaborations with Chinese businesses eager to enter the Indian market, resulting in his active involvement with the Chinese Club of Queensland and the Chinese Business and Professional Association.
In addition to his professional endeavors, Khan launched various platforms to unite members of the Indian community, particularly during the late 1990s. “I was part of an active and passionate team that built the first Indian association here—with funding from the city council and the state department,” he explained. Khan played a significant role in the India Australia Society of Queensland and the Indian Cultural Association of Queensland, organizing multicultural festivals, India fairs, and musical events.
Reflecting on the changing landscape of community support, Khan noted that while these associations were vital in the past, their impact has diminished in recent years. “During our early years here, the community was very helpful. Any new person that arrived was welcomed, and we did our utmost to support them until they were satisfactorily set up. Now, information is much more accessible, and many migrants already have friends or family to help them,” Khan observed.
Despite these changes, Khan remains proud of the contributions made by the Indian community in Australia. “In the hospitals, in industry, at universities, and in government positions, we are all contributing significantly. Regarding international students, I see them working extremely hard to support themselves, and I feel proud of that.”
Advice for New Migrants
As a seasoned member of the community, Khan emphasizes the importance of mindset for new migrants. “In Australia, we are all equal – we respect each other and care for one another. New migrants should arrive with an open mind, respecting every religion and every person, regardless of background,” he advised.
Tausif Khan’s recognition with the OAM highlights his significant contributions to the community and his commitment to fostering connections between cultures. His story serves as an inspiring example of how one individual can make a lasting impact on society through dedication and service.
