Short Back & Sidewalks founder Craig Hollywood recognised in the Kings Birthday 2026 Honours List
Short Back & Sidewalks founder Craig Hollywood has been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the General Division in the King's Birthday 2026 Honours List, announced by Governor-General Sam Mostyn on Sunday night.
Craig is recognised for significant service to the community through social welfare organisations and is one of 35 Western Australians to be appointed to the Order in this year’s list.
The prestigious honour acknowledges Craig's years of dedication to improving the lives of Australians experiencing homelessness, poverty and social isolation through the simple idea of using a haircut to create a genuine positive human connection.
A fresh haircut and a positive connection and conversation can be a powerful catalyst for change. It’s not just about looking good, it’s about feeling seen, valued, and inspired to take the first steps toward a brighter future. Craig said the true impact of the organisation is found in the stories of those it supports with each story reminding that even a small act of kindness can ignite a spark of change in someone’s life.
“It’s about children who once felt invisible in school now finding their voices and confidently participating,” Craig said.
“It’s about women, who have bravely faced the shadows of domestic violence, stepping into job interviews and critical appointments with newfound hope and strength. It’s about individuals experiencing homelessness, who, for just a moment, are truly heard and valued, feeling the warmth of compassion and understanding on a day that could change everything.”
Short Back & Sidewalks CEO Carina Viola said the honour was a fitting recognition of Craig's vision and the values that continue to shape the organisation.
"Craig built our organisation from something deeply personal and that purpose still drives every cut we do. This work isn't charity for us. It's connection, it's respect, and it's about showing up for people who've been overlooked for too long," she said.
Craig was inspired to start the organisation after losing his uncle to addiction, a struggle that also saw him experience periods of homelessness.
"Everything I've ever done in founding this organisation has had him in mind," Craig said.
The Member of the Order of Australia is one of the nation's highest honours, recognising Australians who have demonstrated outstanding service or exceptional achievement.
Craig said the recognition in this year’s Kings Birthday Honours List was not a personal achievement, but a tribute to the volunteers, partners and supporters who have helped build the organisation and to the people who have shared their stories along the way.
"Public recognition like the Australian Honours elevates vital work, attracts supporters and opens doors to new partnerships for the causes our people and communities serve," he said.
Craig hopes his award shines a spotlight on an issue that deserves greater national attention. Tonight, in Australia, more than 122,000 individuals are facing the harsh reality of homelessness, and over 3.5 million people are struggling to survive below the poverty line.
“These are not just numbers, he said.
“They represent real lives, dreams, and families. It’s time for us to come together as a society and do better.”
He believes that homelessness and poverty are challenges that can affect anyone and that communities have the power to create meaningful change through compassion and action
Carina said the recognition should also inspire more people to become part of the solution.
"We are proud of what this honour represents and we want it to push more people to step in. Because the truth is, this work only moves when people do,” she said.
As Short Back & Sidewalks celebrates Craig’s honour, its mission remains unchanged: create meaningful connections through conversations with clients, and create visibility for some of the most marginalised community members in Australia.