Global Australians today announced Michael Cannon-Brookes as the recipient of the Global Australians Lifetime Global Impact Award, recognising a lifetime of achievement, leadership, service and contribution to Australia and the global community.
The award honours Australians whose impact has created lasting value both at home and internationally, celebrating outstanding achievement alongside a commitment to supporting others.
Michael Cannon-Brookes has had a distinguished international career spanning banking, technology, consulting and executive leadership. Arriving in Australia from Hong Kong in 1984 as Managing Director of Citibank, he successfully secured the bank's Australian banking licence and played a pivotal role in establishing its presence in the Australian market.
He later held senior leadership positions with Westpac before transitioning into technology, where he led IBM's banking division and subsequently served as IBM's Vice President of Global Strategy for Growth Markets, based in Shanghai. He was also the first Managing Director of Freehills, helping transform the firm from a traditional legal practice into a modern professional services business.
However, it is not only Michael's professional achievements that Global Australians is recognising. For decades, Michael Cannon-Brookes has quietly mentored dozens of Australians, opening doors, sharing advice and helping them realise opportunities they may not otherwise have had.
Additionally, he has also devoted more than twenty years of volunteer service to Global Australians. From supporting the Shanghai Chapter in 2008 to serving on the Board from 2012 to 2025, he has consistently given his time, expertise and encouragement to help Australians connect, succeed and support one another around the world.
Global Australians Chief Executive Officer Kate McQuestin said Michael is widely admired not only for his extraordinary career, but for the countless people he has helped, encouraged and mentored along the way.
"Throughout my time as CEO, one name has consistently come up wherever Australians gather around the world. Whether in Singapore, Hong Kong, New York, London or Sydney, people have shared stories about Michael Cannon-Brookes."
"A piece of advice he gave. A door he opened. A conversation that changed the direction of someone's career. I have met countless Australians who proudly speak about the impact Mike has had on their careers and lives."
Ms McQuestin said one quality repeatedly stood out among those who had been influenced by Michael.
"They are kind. They make time for others. They support people and causes bigger than themselves. We often talk about success, but kindness leaves a lasting impact far beyond any individual achievement. Mike's influence can be seen not only in what he has accomplished, but in the people he has helped along the way."
"Today, we recognise the impact Mike has had through his leadership, generosity and willingness to support others. Much of that contribution occurred behind the scenes, without recognition or expectation, simply because he cared."
"Some of the most important contributions happen quietly. Through mentorship. Through encouragement. Through opening doors. Through helping others realise opportunities they may not have seen for themselves."
"There's never been a more important time to recognise the quiet acts of generosity, mentorship and support that help individuals, communities and organisations thrive. Mike's impact is a powerful reminder that helping others succeed can create opportunities and influence that last for generations," Ms McQuestin said.
On accepting the award Michael Cannon-Brookes said, “I am genuinely humbled by this recognition. The truth is that mentoring has never felt like a responsibility to me. It has always been a privilege.”
“Throughout my career I have had the opportunity to meet remarkable people with ambition, talent and potential. I have always enjoyed listening to their stories, helping them think through challenges and, where I could, encouraging them to back themselves.”
“If I have been able to repay a small part of that by helping others along the way, then I consider myself incredibly fortunate. There is no greater reward than seeing someone grow in confidence, take a chance, achieve something they didn't think possible and then go on to help others,” said Michael Cannon-Brookes
Australians Honouring Michael Cannon-Brookes
Michael’s son Mike Cannon-Brookes junior led the mentees tributes to his father.
“Growing up, we moved around the world following Dad’s career. We lived in different countries, experienced different cultures and met people from all walks of life.
“That shaped how Dad saw the world, and how he encouraged us to see it too. He taught us to be curious about people, to value different perspectives and to understand that Australia’s strength comes from the diversity of people who choose to contribute to it.
“You only have to look at Australia’s World Cup team to see that story. The Socceroos reflect modern Australia: different backgrounds, different family stories, different pathways, all united by a shared commitment to this country.
“Dad’s story is part of that same Australian story. He arrived here in 1984, built a life, contributed deeply and spent decades helping others do the same. At a time when conversations can too often become narrow, his impact is a reminder of what Australia gains when we welcome talent, ambition and generosity from around the world.”
"I know he’s helped many people over the years and never sought recognition for any of it. He simply enjoyed helping people and took genuine pleasure in seeing others succeed. For our family, that's what makes this recognition so meaningful. It reflects the values he has lived by throughout his life. We are incredibly proud and grateful for everything he has taught us and delighted to see his contribution recognised in this way."
Among those paying tribute was mentee Doug Ferguson, who said, “As a senior executive who worked around the world with IBM, Citigroup and leading law firms, Michael deeply believed in the mission of Global Australians (then Advance) and the important role Australians abroad play in leading global organisations, inspiring future generations to think globally and pursue their ambitions.
“He also believes experienced Australians living overseas had a valuable contribution to make when they returned home."
“Michael has always been incredibly generous with his time, wisdom and advice, particularly in supporting returning Australians, including me. He has been a trusted friend and mentor to many. His selfless service, leadership and commitment have benefited not only Global Australians, but Australia itself. He has set an extraordinary example for all of us.”
Fellow mentee Sally Loane AM reflected on Michael’s generosity and the impact he has had on her own career.
"One of the most admirable and remarkable things about Mike is his quiet humility about his own extraordinary achievements in business and in life. When he coaches and mentors you - it’s all about you - not him. That is a rare and precious attribute.”
"Mike is extraordinarily generous with his black book of influential friends and networks. He has introduced me to several, which led to meetings for which I will always be deeply grateful.”
He was instrumental in my appointment to one of my most interesting and purposeful boards, the Garvan Medical Research Foundation, and from there, having met more people in his network, I was appointed to a commercial board, one of three boards I now chair.
“Mike’s extensive network is loyal, influential and the result of a lifetime of trusted friendships and work relationships. Very few people have the generosity of spirit to open their black book to others - Mike is the honourable exception.”
Another mentee, Adrian Turner, also paid tribute to Michael’s leadership and willingness to invest in others.
“In business there are very few leaders that have had enormous success on the world stage, while retaining humility, and advocating a pay it forward and growth mindset. Mike has all these things. I am grateful for the time and wisdom he has shared with me over the years.”
The founder of Advance (now Global Australians), Ken Allen AO, said Michael’s influence could be seen in the many people whose lives and careers he had shaped.
“Michael’s impact on so many individuals within our community cannot be measured simply by the roles he held or the initiatives he led. It is reflected in the countless people he encouraged, supported and connected throughout his career.”
“What always stood out to me was Michael’s genuine commitment to helping others succeed. He understood that talent, ambition and opportunity are not confined by geography, and he was a passionate advocate for Australians pursuing their ambitions on the global stage.”
“His leadership was thoughtful, generous and grounded in service. He gave his time freely, shared his wisdom openly and was always willing to help others navigate their own journeys.”
“Michael’s legacy is not measured by titles or achievements alone, but by the people he has guided, the opportunities he has created and the countless lives he has touched. His commitment to service, leadership and helping Australians succeed at home and abroad has left an enduring mark on our community and our nation.”
Josephine Linden AM, who served alongside Michael on the Advance Board for many years, led tributes from around the world, reflecting on his impact as a mentor, leader and advocate for Australia.
“Having had the pleasure of serving many years alongside Michael on the Advance Board, I have had a front-row seat to the qualities that make him such a remarkable leader. His achievements as an entrepreneur, innovator, and champion for Australia are widely known. What is perhaps less visible, but equally important, is the generosity with which he shares his time, wisdom, and encouragement with so many others.”
“Michael has become a mentor to countless people. He possesses that rare ability to challenge others to think bigger while simultaneously making them feel supported in their ambitions. His influence extends far beyond the companies he has built; it is reflected in the careers, ideas, and aspirations of so many who have benefited from his guidance.”
“What has always stood out most is that, despite his extraordinary success, Michael remains deeply curious, approachable, and engaged. He brings energy and conviction to every conversation, whether discussing the future of technology, climate solutions, Australia’s place in the world, or simply sharing a story over dinner.”
“Michael’s impact reaches far beyond business. He has helped redefine what Australian leadership can look like on the global stage: ambitious, innovative, principled, and optimistic. He has demonstrated that commercial success and meaningful purpose are not competing goals but powerful partners.”
“For all that he has built, all that he continues to contribute, and all the people he has inspired along the way, this recognition could not be more deserved. Australia and indeed the world is better for your leadership, your vision, your generosity, and your example.”
Former Australian Ambassador to the United States Arthur Sinodinos AO said Michael’s support for Australians around the world had made a lasting difference.
“Michael has been a wonderful mentor to so many Australians both here and abroad, generous in sharing both his time and experience.”
“He is passionate about helping Australians abroad who return to Australia, recognising the invaluable experience they bring with them to the benefit of Michael’s adopted country. His recognition by Global Australians (formerly Advance) is a fitting tribute to those efforts and the role model he has become.”
Long-time friend David Thodey AO concluded the tributes by reflecting on Michael’s impact on people, organisations and Australia’s standing in the world.
“Thanks for all the work you do supporting great Australians, being such a strong advocate for Australia and the pioneering work you have done in building bridges to developing countries around the world.”
“You have also been a strong advocate for Australia in the many global executive roles you have had. Your advocacy, insights and balanced perspectives have always opened doors for people, business and nations. It is a rare talent and you have had an impact on the world stage.”
“You also use these wonderful skills to invest in people - who are the stronger and better from your input. Congratulations on this well deserved award - you are a worthy recipient - and we are proud to be able to call you a Great Global Australian and friend.”
Mentoring Initiative Launches in His Honour
To honour Michael Cannon-Brookes' contribution, Global Australians announced the launch of the Global Australians Mentoring Initiative.
The initiative will connect emerging Australians with experienced leaders from across the Global Australians community, helping accelerate careers, expand networks and create new opportunities across the globe.
The mentoring program will sit alongside Global Australians' growing ecosystem of initiatives, including its Career Pathways Program, Global Leaders Circle and Global Australian Awards.
Ms McQuestin said the initiative reflects the values Michael has demonstrated throughout his life and career. "The most important part of everything we do is people. Because behind every connection is a story. A mentor who opened a door. A conversation that changed a career. A community that provided support. A fellow Australian who believed in someone else's potential.
“These connections reflect the very best of Australia: curiosity, courage, generosity and a willingness to help others succeed. We know from our own data that 75% of Australians abroad want to give back to Australia. They want to contribute. They want to support others. They want to be part of something bigger than themselves.”
“The Mentoring Initiative is inspired by the generosity, wisdom and encouragement Mike has shown throughout his career.”
“Australian ambition matters, but so do the people who back it. The people who share advice, open doors, give their time and support others. Offer a helping hand in the spirit of Australian mateship.
“Legacies are not built by what we achieve ourselves. They are built by the opportunities we create for others.”
“His impact since arriving on our shores in 1984 has been immense. We are thrilled to honour that contribution today and to do our part to ensure his legacy continues for generations to come,” said McQuestin.
Global Australians is the Global Community for Australian Ambition, grounded in a simple belief: we go further together. Uniting Australians across 140 countries, we harness the power of our people, expertise and connections to strengthen Australia's competitiveness, resilience and future prosperity.
As an independent not-for-profit organisation, we connect leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, researchers, creatives and emerging talent to unlock opportunities, foster collaboration and demonstrate that Australian ambition knows no borders.
The Global Australians Foundation, our DGR-endorsed charity, exists to help Australians facing disadvantage pursue their ambitions and realise their potential, because where you come from should never limit where you can go.