Today we celebrate the country we love and the values that underpin it. We also celebrate those in our community who represent the very best of our country.
Four outstanding Australians were honoured today as part of the Australian of the Year Awards for 2014.
I am pleased to have presented AFL footballer Mr Adam Goodes with his award for Australian of the Year 2014.
Mr Goodes is a role model for many Australians and demonstrates a commitment to fairness and equality both on and off the field. He is a passionate advocate for Indigenous issues and has shown leadership in the fight against racism.
Today we also honour the work of Fred Chaney AO as the 2014 Senior Australian of the Year. A former Federal Minister, Mr Chaney has a long history of public service and a commitment to reconciliation and improving opportunities for Indigenous Australians.
Australia’s 2012 Paralympian of the Year Jacqueline Freney continues to add to her extraordinary record of achievement and today was named the Young Australian of the Year 2014.
Since 1998 Mr Tim Conolan has assisted more than four million children and their families through his charity TLC for Kids. This has earned him the well-deserved honour of Australia’s Local Hero 2014.
Australians should look to the recipients of this year’s Australian of the Year awards as examples of our nation at its best.
I am confident all of the winners will use the next year to bring attention and focus to their individual passions.