Latest news with #AustralianoftheYearAwards
The Advertiser
4 days ago
- Business
- The Advertiser
How these cafe heroes are inspiring next generation of community champions
They may officially be the country's local heroes, but cafe owners Vanessa Brettell and Hannah Costello are just happy to be away from the office. The pair run Stepping Stone, a social enterprise that began in Cartagena, Colombia, back in 2017, and shifted to Canberra amid the pandemic in 2020. Their cafe helps female workers who are the sole income earners in their household, new arrivals to Australia, with limited English or minimal employment history, and those experiencing homelessness. The women develop skills and experience, which helps them get into the wider workforce. Named Australia's Local Heroes at January's Australian of the Year Awards, they have barely had time to take a breath since. A trip to the Northern Territory, to meet with other social enterprises and talk to schoolkids about their work, has marked another milestone for the couple - the first time they've been able to leave their staff in charge of the two bustling Stepping Stone cafes. "It's a relief, it's such a sense of achievement," Ms Brettell said over the phone from Melbourne. "It feels wonderful when we can go and everything works well. Obviously there are little hiccups, but we're on call, and that's all part of them growing. Us not being there actually enhances everyone's sense of responsibility and ownership over the businesses, and that sense of pride that they are responsible and can manage it without us." Ms Brettell and Ms Costello, who met more than a decade ago working at a London pub, have been invited by the Northern Territory National Australia Day Council. During Refugee Week, from June 15 to 21, they'll meet with another work integration social enterprise in Darwin and visit primary schools to present children with "Aussie of the month" awards. AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR AWARDS: NOMINATE NOW! "I think the main message that we want to get out to little kids is that if you see something that you want to change in your community, you can do it," Ms Costello said. "Talk to the adults, talk to the people around you, and you can affect the change that you want to see, really." Being named Australia's Local Heroes, apart from putting their enterprise on the map, had exposed them to new ways of thinking about their business and the people they helped and employed. "That additional publicity has led to new opportunities for us, actually looking at growing and scaling the business, and I guess having the award behind us is really motivating," Ms Brettell said. "It feels like we have a bit of responsibility to make the most of this year and take as many opportunities as we can for the women that work with us, but mostly for the women who are still waiting to work with us. We have about 60 women on our waiting list, so that's really the motivation to grow and scale the business this year." They are looking at other ways to employ the many women who need jobs. "We have a lot of women that we work with where hospitality isn't probably the environment for them," Ms Brettell said. "It can be a very stressful environment with a lot of fast paced things changing all of the time. We have been very lucky to have people in the community that have different skills that they can bring to the table. We don't want to say too much just yet, because nothing's set in stone, but some wheels are moving in the direction of starting different types of businesses or starting different types of operations and training opportunities for the women that we work with." Who inspires you? Who do you think should be our next Australian of the Year? If you see them or hear about them, nominate them before July 31 for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards at They may officially be the country's local heroes, but cafe owners Vanessa Brettell and Hannah Costello are just happy to be away from the office. The pair run Stepping Stone, a social enterprise that began in Cartagena, Colombia, back in 2017, and shifted to Canberra amid the pandemic in 2020. Their cafe helps female workers who are the sole income earners in their household, new arrivals to Australia, with limited English or minimal employment history, and those experiencing homelessness. The women develop skills and experience, which helps them get into the wider workforce. Named Australia's Local Heroes at January's Australian of the Year Awards, they have barely had time to take a breath since. A trip to the Northern Territory, to meet with other social enterprises and talk to schoolkids about their work, has marked another milestone for the couple - the first time they've been able to leave their staff in charge of the two bustling Stepping Stone cafes. "It's a relief, it's such a sense of achievement," Ms Brettell said over the phone from Melbourne. "It feels wonderful when we can go and everything works well. Obviously there are little hiccups, but we're on call, and that's all part of them growing. Us not being there actually enhances everyone's sense of responsibility and ownership over the businesses, and that sense of pride that they are responsible and can manage it without us." Ms Brettell and Ms Costello, who met more than a decade ago working at a London pub, have been invited by the Northern Territory National Australia Day Council. During Refugee Week, from June 15 to 21, they'll meet with another work integration social enterprise in Darwin and visit primary schools to present children with "Aussie of the month" awards. AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR AWARDS: NOMINATE NOW! "I think the main message that we want to get out to little kids is that if you see something that you want to change in your community, you can do it," Ms Costello said. "Talk to the adults, talk to the people around you, and you can affect the change that you want to see, really." Being named Australia's Local Heroes, apart from putting their enterprise on the map, had exposed them to new ways of thinking about their business and the people they helped and employed. "That additional publicity has led to new opportunities for us, actually looking at growing and scaling the business, and I guess having the award behind us is really motivating," Ms Brettell said. "It feels like we have a bit of responsibility to make the most of this year and take as many opportunities as we can for the women that work with us, but mostly for the women who are still waiting to work with us. We have about 60 women on our waiting list, so that's really the motivation to grow and scale the business this year." They are looking at other ways to employ the many women who need jobs. "We have a lot of women that we work with where hospitality isn't probably the environment for them," Ms Brettell said. "It can be a very stressful environment with a lot of fast paced things changing all of the time. We have been very lucky to have people in the community that have different skills that they can bring to the table. We don't want to say too much just yet, because nothing's set in stone, but some wheels are moving in the direction of starting different types of businesses or starting different types of operations and training opportunities for the women that we work with." Who inspires you? Who do you think should be our next Australian of the Year? If you see them or hear about them, nominate them before July 31 for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards at They may officially be the country's local heroes, but cafe owners Vanessa Brettell and Hannah Costello are just happy to be away from the office. The pair run Stepping Stone, a social enterprise that began in Cartagena, Colombia, back in 2017, and shifted to Canberra amid the pandemic in 2020. Their cafe helps female workers who are the sole income earners in their household, new arrivals to Australia, with limited English or minimal employment history, and those experiencing homelessness. The women develop skills and experience, which helps them get into the wider workforce. Named Australia's Local Heroes at January's Australian of the Year Awards, they have barely had time to take a breath since. A trip to the Northern Territory, to meet with other social enterprises and talk to schoolkids about their work, has marked another milestone for the couple - the first time they've been able to leave their staff in charge of the two bustling Stepping Stone cafes. "It's a relief, it's such a sense of achievement," Ms Brettell said over the phone from Melbourne. "It feels wonderful when we can go and everything works well. Obviously there are little hiccups, but we're on call, and that's all part of them growing. Us not being there actually enhances everyone's sense of responsibility and ownership over the businesses, and that sense of pride that they are responsible and can manage it without us." Ms Brettell and Ms Costello, who met more than a decade ago working at a London pub, have been invited by the Northern Territory National Australia Day Council. During Refugee Week, from June 15 to 21, they'll meet with another work integration social enterprise in Darwin and visit primary schools to present children with "Aussie of the month" awards. AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR AWARDS: NOMINATE NOW! "I think the main message that we want to get out to little kids is that if you see something that you want to change in your community, you can do it," Ms Costello said. "Talk to the adults, talk to the people around you, and you can affect the change that you want to see, really." Being named Australia's Local Heroes, apart from putting their enterprise on the map, had exposed them to new ways of thinking about their business and the people they helped and employed. "That additional publicity has led to new opportunities for us, actually looking at growing and scaling the business, and I guess having the award behind us is really motivating," Ms Brettell said. "It feels like we have a bit of responsibility to make the most of this year and take as many opportunities as we can for the women that work with us, but mostly for the women who are still waiting to work with us. We have about 60 women on our waiting list, so that's really the motivation to grow and scale the business this year." They are looking at other ways to employ the many women who need jobs. "We have a lot of women that we work with where hospitality isn't probably the environment for them," Ms Brettell said. "It can be a very stressful environment with a lot of fast paced things changing all of the time. We have been very lucky to have people in the community that have different skills that they can bring to the table. We don't want to say too much just yet, because nothing's set in stone, but some wheels are moving in the direction of starting different types of businesses or starting different types of operations and training opportunities for the women that we work with." Who inspires you? Who do you think should be our next Australian of the Year? If you see them or hear about them, nominate them before July 31 for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards at They may officially be the country's local heroes, but cafe owners Vanessa Brettell and Hannah Costello are just happy to be away from the office. The pair run Stepping Stone, a social enterprise that began in Cartagena, Colombia, back in 2017, and shifted to Canberra amid the pandemic in 2020. Their cafe helps female workers who are the sole income earners in their household, new arrivals to Australia, with limited English or minimal employment history, and those experiencing homelessness. The women develop skills and experience, which helps them get into the wider workforce. Named Australia's Local Heroes at January's Australian of the Year Awards, they have barely had time to take a breath since. A trip to the Northern Territory, to meet with other social enterprises and talk to schoolkids about their work, has marked another milestone for the couple - the first time they've been able to leave their staff in charge of the two bustling Stepping Stone cafes. "It's a relief, it's such a sense of achievement," Ms Brettell said over the phone from Melbourne. "It feels wonderful when we can go and everything works well. Obviously there are little hiccups, but we're on call, and that's all part of them growing. Us not being there actually enhances everyone's sense of responsibility and ownership over the businesses, and that sense of pride that they are responsible and can manage it without us." Ms Brettell and Ms Costello, who met more than a decade ago working at a London pub, have been invited by the Northern Territory National Australia Day Council. During Refugee Week, from June 15 to 21, they'll meet with another work integration social enterprise in Darwin and visit primary schools to present children with "Aussie of the month" awards. AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR AWARDS: NOMINATE NOW! "I think the main message that we want to get out to little kids is that if you see something that you want to change in your community, you can do it," Ms Costello said. "Talk to the adults, talk to the people around you, and you can affect the change that you want to see, really." Being named Australia's Local Heroes, apart from putting their enterprise on the map, had exposed them to new ways of thinking about their business and the people they helped and employed. "That additional publicity has led to new opportunities for us, actually looking at growing and scaling the business, and I guess having the award behind us is really motivating," Ms Brettell said. "It feels like we have a bit of responsibility to make the most of this year and take as many opportunities as we can for the women that work with us, but mostly for the women who are still waiting to work with us. We have about 60 women on our waiting list, so that's really the motivation to grow and scale the business this year." They are looking at other ways to employ the many women who need jobs. "We have a lot of women that we work with where hospitality isn't probably the environment for them," Ms Brettell said. "It can be a very stressful environment with a lot of fast paced things changing all of the time. We have been very lucky to have people in the community that have different skills that they can bring to the table. We don't want to say too much just yet, because nothing's set in stone, but some wheels are moving in the direction of starting different types of businesses or starting different types of operations and training opportunities for the women that we work with." Who inspires you? Who do you think should be our next Australian of the Year? If you see them or hear about them, nominate them before July 31 for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards at
Herald Sun
10-06-2025
- Health
- Herald Sun
How the Melbourne All Abilities Cricket Association pulls people out of ‘very dark places'
At 25 years of age, Denis Wilkinson received a diagnosis that would change his life forever. Wilkinson was found to have McCune-Albright Syndrome, a rare and complex genetic disorder affecting the bone, skin and endocrine systems. It explained why he shot up from 5'8 to 6'8 between the ages of 15 and 22. 'I'm one in five million,' Wilkinson explained. 'I get looked after at Royal Melbourne and at Western Health medically, I see the best surgeons. My biggest problem is excess growth, because I produce so much growth hormone naturally, it's a lot of disfiguration and my bones are very soft. '(The diagnosis) was very very late and it literally changed my whole life. 'Sometimes my body, I wake up some days and I'm done before I start.' Almost poetically, around the same time Wilkinson, now aged 40, was diagnosed with McCune-Albright Syndrome some 15 years ago, a chance conversation was struck up at Moorabbin Cricket Club. It was there and then the seed for what would become the Melbourne All Abilities Cricket Association (MAACA) was planted in the mind of the competition's founder, Steve Lefebvre. In 2025, the competition celebrated its 10th season, and it has shaped the lives of Wilkinson and many others for the better. 'This has really saved a number of them,' Lefebvre said of the impact MAACA has had on its participants. 'Some of them have seen darker times and playing within a club has got them connected which is absolutely fantastic, they don't become one of those unfortunate statistics, they're actually enjoying themselves among the community like everyone else. 'A number of the clubs have helped them get jobs, they've helped them go through pathway processes to the Victorian team.' The association now has 16 clubs, 24 teams and more than 300 players across Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo and greater Melbourne. Crucially, every program must be embedded within a 'mainstream' local cricket club to foster a sense of belonging. Lefebvre is a retired police officer of 41 years who developed Victoria Police's mental health strategy, while he was also recognised with a 'Victorian Local Hero' nomination at the 2025 Australian of the Year Awards for his work with MAACA. He said the association's growth was rapid, but would be capped at three new clubs per season so it 'doesn't get out of hand'. 'We've got different divisions according to different skill levels and different disability levels, right up to the high functioning guys,' he explained. Humble beginnings Vickram Jholl was the player who inspired the creation of an all-abilities program at Moorabbin, and later the formation of the MAACA, when his tireless and determined parents leant over the fence at cricket training and asked Lefebvre if he could help their son. In the first year there were only seven players and Lefebvre was left disappointed, but steadily that number grew. The next year there were 19, then 29, then 44, and so on. 'It just started as an idea at Moorabbin Cricket Club about 15 years ago and it all started to blossom, now we're putting the reins on it because it's just exploding … when you see it you're absolutely hooked,' Lefebvre said. 'The interest got so big that we decided to set up a competition. It's a program first and a competition second. 'It must be embedded within a mainstream cricket club, it can't be an all abilities club, and that's all about integration and inclusion basically … all our all abilities players come to Moorabbin functions. 'The cultural change has taken place many years ago and it's just part of the everyday furniture at Moorabbin which is fantastic. It's nothing new for a First XI player to be sitting next to an all abilities player and having a chat. 'That was the idea of what we wanted to do and that was the way it worked out which was great.' Vickram's parents Arjan and Gobind Jholl had been searching tirelessly for an opportunity for Vickram – who has autism and an intellectual disability – to play cricket when they met Lefebvre. 'It took us a while to get a club that would take in people with all abilities,' Arjan explained. 'Vickram was really interested in cricket … he kept saying he wanted to play cricket. 'We went around door knocking, got the local council involved as well, it took us around a year. 'Everyone was telling us we can't take it on, it's too hard basket, it's a big liability, but Steve gave it a go and said 'I'll do it', and he did. He's our saviour, we weren't going to give up until we found someone but we were lucky that Steve gave us a go.' The impact Vickram and Wilkinson are just two cases out of hundreds of MAACA shaping a disadvantaged life for the better. 'It has made a lot of difference … just that sense of belonging, giving everyone a go, you're not judging,' Arjan said of the impact on Vickram. 'Everyone has a goal no matter what your ability is, he's so proud to put on his uniform on match days and he thinks, 'right, I'm a hot shot cricket player'. It has boosted his self esteem, his morale. 'He's a different boy altogether.' Wilkinson has only been playing in MAACA for the past two seasons but said it had been 'amazing' for him. 'It's given me another path and another step in life, people go through a lot of things in life, but it's all about a team environment and getting out there, and community,' said Wilkinson, who plays for Seddon Cricket Club. 'Some days I wake up and my head is just pounding and my face is swollen, it's just life. 'Cricket helps me and gives me a purpose on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, to me it gives me something to look forward to, then a week's gone like that.' 'My day to day life is very boring unfortunately, I'm on the disability pension and when I'm really sick I don't leave the house, or might see the boys at cricket and socialise. 'Outside of cricket I struggle a lot on the medical side of it. Cricket and golf are the things that get me out of the house to come and socialise, it makes me a better person. 'The people at Seddon love and respect all of our all abilities players, they put a smile on our face and we put a smile on their face.' An action as simple as Wilkinson putting his body behind the ball in the outfield can cause injury for him given his softer bones, while he also needs injections once a month, has to take tablets everyday, and has diabetes. 'We could go on forever …' he trails off. Wilkinson has also struggled with alcohol as a result of his condition, but went cold turkey in his first season with MAACA. 'I get on it a bit, I don't work most days and it gets boring, cricket does help. I can't say so much positive things with MAACA … I'm very fortunate. 'Last year I did so well,' Wilkinson said. 'This year hasn't been great because when I get sick I get on it a bit too much, but that's life.' Wilkinson added that his diagnosis 'took a big toll' on him. 'I'm lucky I've got an amazing family, my mum and dad, If I didn't have them … I've been in very dark places in life and if it wasn't for my family and friends and cricket and golf, it was very, very, very hard. 'Everyone gets dealt a shit card and might feel shit on 'x' day, but you've got to wake up and have some positives.'
The Advertiser
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Advertiser
First look: watch the moving new celebration of the Aussies who inspire us
The National Australia Day Council is showcasing current and former Australian of the Year Awards recipients in an inspiring new advertising campaign to encourage nominations for next year's awards. The 60-second advertisement to appear online and on TV features current Australian of the Year Neale Daniher and Young Australian of the Year Dr Katrina Wruck as well as Local Hero Award recipients Amar Singh, of Turbans 4 Australia, and Victorian football advocate for women Jasmine Hirst. Part of the clip was filmed in Cafe Stepping Stone, the social enterprise employing women mostly from migrant and refugee backgrounds established in Canberra by Australia's Local Heroes for 2025, Vanessa Brettell and Hannah Costello. Nominations for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards are open until July 31. Australians are being urged to shine a spotlight on the local legends and national change-makers whose efforts have enriched our communities. The Australian of the Year Awards require public nominations to identify outstanding individuals and it only takes one nomination for someone to be considered for the prestigious awards. "Every day, we all see people doing something special or we hear about people who are making a real impact - it's these people we all see and hear about that we want the public to nominate," National Australia Day Council chair John Foreman said. "When you see them or hear about them, nominate them." Nominate now at The four categories are: Australian of the Year; Senior Australian of the Year (aged 65 and over); Young Australian of the Year (aged 16 to 30); and Australia's Local Hero. From the public's nominations, each state and territory announces a recipient in each category. These state and territory award recipients then become the national finalists for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards to be announced on the evening of January 25, 2026, in Canberra. Who inspires you? Who do you think should be our next Australian of the Year? If you see them or hear about them, nominate them before July 31 for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards at The National Australia Day Council is showcasing current and former Australian of the Year Awards recipients in an inspiring new advertising campaign to encourage nominations for next year's awards. The 60-second advertisement to appear online and on TV features current Australian of the Year Neale Daniher and Young Australian of the Year Dr Katrina Wruck as well as Local Hero Award recipients Amar Singh, of Turbans 4 Australia, and Victorian football advocate for women Jasmine Hirst. Part of the clip was filmed in Cafe Stepping Stone, the social enterprise employing women mostly from migrant and refugee backgrounds established in Canberra by Australia's Local Heroes for 2025, Vanessa Brettell and Hannah Costello. Nominations for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards are open until July 31. Australians are being urged to shine a spotlight on the local legends and national change-makers whose efforts have enriched our communities. The Australian of the Year Awards require public nominations to identify outstanding individuals and it only takes one nomination for someone to be considered for the prestigious awards. "Every day, we all see people doing something special or we hear about people who are making a real impact - it's these people we all see and hear about that we want the public to nominate," National Australia Day Council chair John Foreman said. "When you see them or hear about them, nominate them." Nominate now at The four categories are: Australian of the Year; Senior Australian of the Year (aged 65 and over); Young Australian of the Year (aged 16 to 30); and Australia's Local Hero. From the public's nominations, each state and territory announces a recipient in each category. These state and territory award recipients then become the national finalists for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards to be announced on the evening of January 25, 2026, in Canberra. Who inspires you? Who do you think should be our next Australian of the Year? If you see them or hear about them, nominate them before July 31 for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards at The National Australia Day Council is showcasing current and former Australian of the Year Awards recipients in an inspiring new advertising campaign to encourage nominations for next year's awards. The 60-second advertisement to appear online and on TV features current Australian of the Year Neale Daniher and Young Australian of the Year Dr Katrina Wruck as well as Local Hero Award recipients Amar Singh, of Turbans 4 Australia, and Victorian football advocate for women Jasmine Hirst. Part of the clip was filmed in Cafe Stepping Stone, the social enterprise employing women mostly from migrant and refugee backgrounds established in Canberra by Australia's Local Heroes for 2025, Vanessa Brettell and Hannah Costello. Nominations for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards are open until July 31. Australians are being urged to shine a spotlight on the local legends and national change-makers whose efforts have enriched our communities. The Australian of the Year Awards require public nominations to identify outstanding individuals and it only takes one nomination for someone to be considered for the prestigious awards. "Every day, we all see people doing something special or we hear about people who are making a real impact - it's these people we all see and hear about that we want the public to nominate," National Australia Day Council chair John Foreman said. "When you see them or hear about them, nominate them." Nominate now at The four categories are: Australian of the Year; Senior Australian of the Year (aged 65 and over); Young Australian of the Year (aged 16 to 30); and Australia's Local Hero. From the public's nominations, each state and territory announces a recipient in each category. These state and territory award recipients then become the national finalists for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards to be announced on the evening of January 25, 2026, in Canberra. Who inspires you? Who do you think should be our next Australian of the Year? If you see them or hear about them, nominate them before July 31 for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards at The National Australia Day Council is showcasing current and former Australian of the Year Awards recipients in an inspiring new advertising campaign to encourage nominations for next year's awards. The 60-second advertisement to appear online and on TV features current Australian of the Year Neale Daniher and Young Australian of the Year Dr Katrina Wruck as well as Local Hero Award recipients Amar Singh, of Turbans 4 Australia, and Victorian football advocate for women Jasmine Hirst. Part of the clip was filmed in Cafe Stepping Stone, the social enterprise employing women mostly from migrant and refugee backgrounds established in Canberra by Australia's Local Heroes for 2025, Vanessa Brettell and Hannah Costello. Nominations for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards are open until July 31. Australians are being urged to shine a spotlight on the local legends and national change-makers whose efforts have enriched our communities. The Australian of the Year Awards require public nominations to identify outstanding individuals and it only takes one nomination for someone to be considered for the prestigious awards. "Every day, we all see people doing something special or we hear about people who are making a real impact - it's these people we all see and hear about that we want the public to nominate," National Australia Day Council chair John Foreman said. "When you see them or hear about them, nominate them." Nominate now at The four categories are: Australian of the Year; Senior Australian of the Year (aged 65 and over); Young Australian of the Year (aged 16 to 30); and Australia's Local Hero. From the public's nominations, each state and territory announces a recipient in each category. These state and territory award recipients then become the national finalists for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards to be announced on the evening of January 25, 2026, in Canberra. Who inspires you? Who do you think should be our next Australian of the Year? If you see them or hear about them, nominate them before July 31 for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards at
The Advertiser
18-05-2025
- General
- The Advertiser
Who inspires you? Who will you nominate for our next Australian of the Year?
Do you remember where you were when you learned that Neale Daniher AO had been named 2025 Australian of the Year? How did the news make you feel? Were you excited for him? Happy with the decision? Proud to be Australian? And did it make you think of anyone else who might also be deserving of such an honour? I've been looking at some of the online comments from around the time of the announcement and there's a strong theme that emerges: "so deserving"; "a very worthy recipient"; "unbelievably great selection"; "inspirational". Across the country, the news that Neale had received Australia's most prestigious civilian honour was greeted with great jubilation and pride. And somewhere, in a lounge room, kitchen or backyard, one Aussie in particular would have been punching the air with extra exuberance: the person who nominated Neale. READ MORE: Seeking Aussies who make us proud Because, in order for anyone to be considered for this prestigious award, they must first be nominated by a member of the public. That's where you come in. Who do you think should be the next Australian of the Year? I'll give you a moment to think about it. There are four categories in the Australian of the Year Awards: Young Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year, Australia's Local Hero and, of course, the Australian of the Year. Since 1960, the awards have shone well-deserved spotlights on the achievements, passion, excellence and community service of hundreds of great Australians: community leaders, charity workers, musicians, sportspeople, scientists, advocates, doctors and more. It's an extraordinary list of amazing people. Over the years, recipients have represented the rich diversity of our Australian community and have embodied the broad spectrum of Australian life. CLICK HERE TO NOMINATE NOW The awards have become an important part of the fabric of our society. By celebrating the very best of Australian values - kindness, compassion, excellence, ambition, generosity - the Australians of the Year help define the Australian character. These remarkable people have helped our community contemplate what it means to be Australian. Take this year's recipients, for example: 2025 Young Australian of the Year, Dr Katrina Wruck, is a brilliant, ground-breaking scientist and a proud Mabuigilaig and Goemulgal woman whose revolutionary research is helping remote communities and inspiring others to study STEM; Senior Australian of the Year, the inspirational Brother Thomas "Olly" Pickett AM, co-founded Wheelchairs for Kids, which has provided more than 60,000 custom-built wheelchairs to children in more than 80 countries; Australia's Local Heroes, Vanessa Brettell and Hannah Costello, have provided life-changing employment opportunities to women from disadvantaged backgrounds at their fabulous café, Stepping Stone; and Australian of the Year, Neale Daniher has inspired us all with his incredible work as co-founder of FightMND, a charity that has raised and invested over $115 million for medical research to find a cure for motor neurone disease. He is a true Aussie champion. In order to be considered for their awards, each of the amazing Australians was, firstly, nominated by a member of the public. Their nominations were among thousands submitted from across Australia. Then, state and territory-based selection panels came together to discuss, deliberate then anonymously vote to choose the local recipients in each category. The state and territory recipients were announced in November 2024 - and were all then in the running for the national awards. Then, one quiet December morning, the National Australia Council came together to commence what would be two days of highly confidential discussion, debate, consideration and, ultimately, an anonymous vote to decide who, from among the state and territory awardees, will be our national recipients in each category. In January, all state and territory nominees were invited to Canberra where, on the eve of Australia Day, the Prime Minister announced the names of the national recipients. Each year, it's a wonderful, life-changing moment for the awardees, and an exciting opportunity for Australians to acknowledge these outstanding citizens. Remember, in order to reach this point, each potential recipient must first have been nominated by a member of the public. So, have you thought about who you'll nominate? CLICK HERE TO NOMINATE NOW It's worth bearing in mind that some nominees are known to their nominator, but others are not. You might consider submitting the name of a member of the family, a friend or colleague who is an outstanding Australian making a significant difference in your community. Alternatively, you may wish to tell us about someone you've never met, but whose achievements you admire; perhaps someone you've seen on television, read about or discovered online. Some nominees - like Neale, for example - are already household names; others have been quietly working away in their field of endeavour but may not be widely known. It doesn't matter. We are looking for Australians who make a significant contribution the community, excel in their field and have the potential to inspire Australians. To the people who nominated Katrina, Olly, Hannah, Vanessa and Neale - thank you. By simply taking the time to nominate these great Australians, you have made a considerable contribution to your country and helped inspire your fellow citizens. And if you've never nominated anyone - now's the time. Who inspires you? Who is outstanding, brilliant, unique, excellent? Who will be the next Australian of the Year? If you see them, or hear about them, nominate them. It starts with you. Do you remember where you were when you learned that Neale Daniher AO had been named 2025 Australian of the Year? How did the news make you feel? Were you excited for him? Happy with the decision? Proud to be Australian? And did it make you think of anyone else who might also be deserving of such an honour? I've been looking at some of the online comments from around the time of the announcement and there's a strong theme that emerges: "so deserving"; "a very worthy recipient"; "unbelievably great selection"; "inspirational". Across the country, the news that Neale had received Australia's most prestigious civilian honour was greeted with great jubilation and pride. And somewhere, in a lounge room, kitchen or backyard, one Aussie in particular would have been punching the air with extra exuberance: the person who nominated Neale. READ MORE: Seeking Aussies who make us proud Because, in order for anyone to be considered for this prestigious award, they must first be nominated by a member of the public. That's where you come in. Who do you think should be the next Australian of the Year? I'll give you a moment to think about it. There are four categories in the Australian of the Year Awards: Young Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year, Australia's Local Hero and, of course, the Australian of the Year. Since 1960, the awards have shone well-deserved spotlights on the achievements, passion, excellence and community service of hundreds of great Australians: community leaders, charity workers, musicians, sportspeople, scientists, advocates, doctors and more. It's an extraordinary list of amazing people. Over the years, recipients have represented the rich diversity of our Australian community and have embodied the broad spectrum of Australian life. CLICK HERE TO NOMINATE NOW The awards have become an important part of the fabric of our society. By celebrating the very best of Australian values - kindness, compassion, excellence, ambition, generosity - the Australians of the Year help define the Australian character. These remarkable people have helped our community contemplate what it means to be Australian. Take this year's recipients, for example: 2025 Young Australian of the Year, Dr Katrina Wruck, is a brilliant, ground-breaking scientist and a proud Mabuigilaig and Goemulgal woman whose revolutionary research is helping remote communities and inspiring others to study STEM; Senior Australian of the Year, the inspirational Brother Thomas "Olly" Pickett AM, co-founded Wheelchairs for Kids, which has provided more than 60,000 custom-built wheelchairs to children in more than 80 countries; Australia's Local Heroes, Vanessa Brettell and Hannah Costello, have provided life-changing employment opportunities to women from disadvantaged backgrounds at their fabulous café, Stepping Stone; and Australian of the Year, Neale Daniher has inspired us all with his incredible work as co-founder of FightMND, a charity that has raised and invested over $115 million for medical research to find a cure for motor neurone disease. He is a true Aussie champion. In order to be considered for their awards, each of the amazing Australians was, firstly, nominated by a member of the public. Their nominations were among thousands submitted from across Australia. Then, state and territory-based selection panels came together to discuss, deliberate then anonymously vote to choose the local recipients in each category. The state and territory recipients were announced in November 2024 - and were all then in the running for the national awards. Then, one quiet December morning, the National Australia Council came together to commence what would be two days of highly confidential discussion, debate, consideration and, ultimately, an anonymous vote to decide who, from among the state and territory awardees, will be our national recipients in each category. In January, all state and territory nominees were invited to Canberra where, on the eve of Australia Day, the Prime Minister announced the names of the national recipients. Each year, it's a wonderful, life-changing moment for the awardees, and an exciting opportunity for Australians to acknowledge these outstanding citizens. Remember, in order to reach this point, each potential recipient must first have been nominated by a member of the public. So, have you thought about who you'll nominate? CLICK HERE TO NOMINATE NOW It's worth bearing in mind that some nominees are known to their nominator, but others are not. You might consider submitting the name of a member of the family, a friend or colleague who is an outstanding Australian making a significant difference in your community. Alternatively, you may wish to tell us about someone you've never met, but whose achievements you admire; perhaps someone you've seen on television, read about or discovered online. Some nominees - like Neale, for example - are already household names; others have been quietly working away in their field of endeavour but may not be widely known. It doesn't matter. We are looking for Australians who make a significant contribution the community, excel in their field and have the potential to inspire Australians. To the people who nominated Katrina, Olly, Hannah, Vanessa and Neale - thank you. By simply taking the time to nominate these great Australians, you have made a considerable contribution to your country and helped inspire your fellow citizens. And if you've never nominated anyone - now's the time. Who inspires you? Who is outstanding, brilliant, unique, excellent? Who will be the next Australian of the Year? If you see them, or hear about them, nominate them. It starts with you. Do you remember where you were when you learned that Neale Daniher AO had been named 2025 Australian of the Year? How did the news make you feel? Were you excited for him? Happy with the decision? Proud to be Australian? And did it make you think of anyone else who might also be deserving of such an honour? I've been looking at some of the online comments from around the time of the announcement and there's a strong theme that emerges: "so deserving"; "a very worthy recipient"; "unbelievably great selection"; "inspirational". Across the country, the news that Neale had received Australia's most prestigious civilian honour was greeted with great jubilation and pride. And somewhere, in a lounge room, kitchen or backyard, one Aussie in particular would have been punching the air with extra exuberance: the person who nominated Neale. READ MORE: Seeking Aussies who make us proud Because, in order for anyone to be considered for this prestigious award, they must first be nominated by a member of the public. That's where you come in. Who do you think should be the next Australian of the Year? I'll give you a moment to think about it. There are four categories in the Australian of the Year Awards: Young Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year, Australia's Local Hero and, of course, the Australian of the Year. Since 1960, the awards have shone well-deserved spotlights on the achievements, passion, excellence and community service of hundreds of great Australians: community leaders, charity workers, musicians, sportspeople, scientists, advocates, doctors and more. It's an extraordinary list of amazing people. Over the years, recipients have represented the rich diversity of our Australian community and have embodied the broad spectrum of Australian life. CLICK HERE TO NOMINATE NOW The awards have become an important part of the fabric of our society. By celebrating the very best of Australian values - kindness, compassion, excellence, ambition, generosity - the Australians of the Year help define the Australian character. These remarkable people have helped our community contemplate what it means to be Australian. Take this year's recipients, for example: 2025 Young Australian of the Year, Dr Katrina Wruck, is a brilliant, ground-breaking scientist and a proud Mabuigilaig and Goemulgal woman whose revolutionary research is helping remote communities and inspiring others to study STEM; Senior Australian of the Year, the inspirational Brother Thomas "Olly" Pickett AM, co-founded Wheelchairs for Kids, which has provided more than 60,000 custom-built wheelchairs to children in more than 80 countries; Australia's Local Heroes, Vanessa Brettell and Hannah Costello, have provided life-changing employment opportunities to women from disadvantaged backgrounds at their fabulous café, Stepping Stone; and Australian of the Year, Neale Daniher has inspired us all with his incredible work as co-founder of FightMND, a charity that has raised and invested over $115 million for medical research to find a cure for motor neurone disease. He is a true Aussie champion. In order to be considered for their awards, each of the amazing Australians was, firstly, nominated by a member of the public. Their nominations were among thousands submitted from across Australia. Then, state and territory-based selection panels came together to discuss, deliberate then anonymously vote to choose the local recipients in each category. The state and territory recipients were announced in November 2024 - and were all then in the running for the national awards. Then, one quiet December morning, the National Australia Council came together to commence what would be two days of highly confidential discussion, debate, consideration and, ultimately, an anonymous vote to decide who, from among the state and territory awardees, will be our national recipients in each category. In January, all state and territory nominees were invited to Canberra where, on the eve of Australia Day, the Prime Minister announced the names of the national recipients. Each year, it's a wonderful, life-changing moment for the awardees, and an exciting opportunity for Australians to acknowledge these outstanding citizens. Remember, in order to reach this point, each potential recipient must first have been nominated by a member of the public. So, have you thought about who you'll nominate? CLICK HERE TO NOMINATE NOW It's worth bearing in mind that some nominees are known to their nominator, but others are not. You might consider submitting the name of a member of the family, a friend or colleague who is an outstanding Australian making a significant difference in your community. Alternatively, you may wish to tell us about someone you've never met, but whose achievements you admire; perhaps someone you've seen on television, read about or discovered online. Some nominees - like Neale, for example - are already household names; others have been quietly working away in their field of endeavour but may not be widely known. It doesn't matter. We are looking for Australians who make a significant contribution the community, excel in their field and have the potential to inspire Australians. To the people who nominated Katrina, Olly, Hannah, Vanessa and Neale - thank you. By simply taking the time to nominate these great Australians, you have made a considerable contribution to your country and helped inspire your fellow citizens. And if you've never nominated anyone - now's the time. Who inspires you? Who is outstanding, brilliant, unique, excellent? Who will be the next Australian of the Year? If you see them, or hear about them, nominate them. It starts with you. Do you remember where you were when you learned that Neale Daniher AO had been named 2025 Australian of the Year? How did the news make you feel? Were you excited for him? Happy with the decision? Proud to be Australian? And did it make you think of anyone else who might also be deserving of such an honour? I've been looking at some of the online comments from around the time of the announcement and there's a strong theme that emerges: "so deserving"; "a very worthy recipient"; "unbelievably great selection"; "inspirational". Across the country, the news that Neale had received Australia's most prestigious civilian honour was greeted with great jubilation and pride. And somewhere, in a lounge room, kitchen or backyard, one Aussie in particular would have been punching the air with extra exuberance: the person who nominated Neale. READ MORE: Seeking Aussies who make us proud Because, in order for anyone to be considered for this prestigious award, they must first be nominated by a member of the public. That's where you come in. Who do you think should be the next Australian of the Year? I'll give you a moment to think about it. There are four categories in the Australian of the Year Awards: Young Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year, Australia's Local Hero and, of course, the Australian of the Year. Since 1960, the awards have shone well-deserved spotlights on the achievements, passion, excellence and community service of hundreds of great Australians: community leaders, charity workers, musicians, sportspeople, scientists, advocates, doctors and more. It's an extraordinary list of amazing people. Over the years, recipients have represented the rich diversity of our Australian community and have embodied the broad spectrum of Australian life. CLICK HERE TO NOMINATE NOW The awards have become an important part of the fabric of our society. By celebrating the very best of Australian values - kindness, compassion, excellence, ambition, generosity - the Australians of the Year help define the Australian character. These remarkable people have helped our community contemplate what it means to be Australian. Take this year's recipients, for example: 2025 Young Australian of the Year, Dr Katrina Wruck, is a brilliant, ground-breaking scientist and a proud Mabuigilaig and Goemulgal woman whose revolutionary research is helping remote communities and inspiring others to study STEM; Senior Australian of the Year, the inspirational Brother Thomas "Olly" Pickett AM, co-founded Wheelchairs for Kids, which has provided more than 60,000 custom-built wheelchairs to children in more than 80 countries; Australia's Local Heroes, Vanessa Brettell and Hannah Costello, have provided life-changing employment opportunities to women from disadvantaged backgrounds at their fabulous café, Stepping Stone; and Australian of the Year, Neale Daniher has inspired us all with his incredible work as co-founder of FightMND, a charity that has raised and invested over $115 million for medical research to find a cure for motor neurone disease. He is a true Aussie champion. In order to be considered for their awards, each of the amazing Australians was, firstly, nominated by a member of the public. Their nominations were among thousands submitted from across Australia. Then, state and territory-based selection panels came together to discuss, deliberate then anonymously vote to choose the local recipients in each category. The state and territory recipients were announced in November 2024 - and were all then in the running for the national awards. Then, one quiet December morning, the National Australia Council came together to commence what would be two days of highly confidential discussion, debate, consideration and, ultimately, an anonymous vote to decide who, from among the state and territory awardees, will be our national recipients in each category. In January, all state and territory nominees were invited to Canberra where, on the eve of Australia Day, the Prime Minister announced the names of the national recipients. Each year, it's a wonderful, life-changing moment for the awardees, and an exciting opportunity for Australians to acknowledge these outstanding citizens. Remember, in order to reach this point, each potential recipient must first have been nominated by a member of the public. So, have you thought about who you'll nominate? CLICK HERE TO NOMINATE NOW It's worth bearing in mind that some nominees are known to their nominator, but others are not. You might consider submitting the name of a member of the family, a friend or colleague who is an outstanding Australian making a significant difference in your community. Alternatively, you may wish to tell us about someone you've never met, but whose achievements you admire; perhaps someone you've seen on television, read about or discovered online. Some nominees - like Neale, for example - are already household names; others have been quietly working away in their field of endeavour but may not be widely known. It doesn't matter. We are looking for Australians who make a significant contribution the community, excel in their field and have the potential to inspire Australians. To the people who nominated Katrina, Olly, Hannah, Vanessa and Neale - thank you. By simply taking the time to nominate these great Australians, you have made a considerable contribution to your country and helped inspire your fellow citizens. And if you've never nominated anyone - now's the time. Who inspires you? Who is outstanding, brilliant, unique, excellent? Who will be the next Australian of the Year? If you see them, or hear about them, nominate them. It starts with you.
