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2025 NAIDOC AWARD WINNERS

Awards, NAIDOC | Posted July 7, 2025
2025 NAIDOC AWARD WINNERS

(Photo courtesy of naidoc.org.au)

NAIDOC Week is one of the most significant and anticipated events on the Australian calendar. It’s a time when communities across the country come together to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.  

A highlight of NAIDOC Week is the prestigious National NAIDOC Awards. These awards recognise and honour the extraordinary contributions of First Nations individuals and groups who are making a profound difference in their communities and beyond. From tireless advocates and cultural custodians to emerging young leaders and sporting champions, these awards celebrate excellence across diverse fields. 

The Awards span multiple categories, each highlighting a unique area of achievement. Awards such as Person of the Year and the Lifetime Achievement Award honour exceptional leadership and lifelong dedication to advancing the rights and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Other categories recognise contributions to specific areas like education, creative arts, caring for country, business innovation and sports. 

Collectively, these awards not only spotlight individual and community excellence but also aim to inspire future generations and remind us all of the critical role First Nations peoples play in our shared story. 

Meet the 2025 NAIDOC Award Winners: 

  • Person of the Year: Dr Daniel Hunt, a Jaru and Indjibarndi man, recognised for his significant work in Aboriginal health and improving health equity for First Nations Peoples. 
  • Lifetime Achievement Award: Michael Long OAM, honoured for decades of advocacy for Indigenous rights and tackling racism, particularly through his influence within the AFL. 
  • Creative Talent Award: Christine Anu, a proud Torres Strait Islander whose rich musical and artistic career continues to share and celebrate culture across the country. 
  • Education Award: Professor Eddie Cubillo, acknowledged for his dedication to education and his strong advocacy for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. 
  • Caring for Country and Culture Award: The Wadjemup Project Steering Group, celebrated for their critical work in addressing the history of Aboriginal imprisonment on Wadjemup (Rottnest Island) and fostering healing. 
  • Female Elder of the Year: Aunty Rosalie Kickett, honoured for her extensive service in mental health and domestic violence support. 
  • Male Elder of the Year: Uncle Harry Phillip Hall, recognised for his enduring cultural leadership and contributions to his community. 
  • Youth Award: Anika Gosling, praised for her emerging leadership and passion for driving positive change at the grassroots level and supporting Aboriginal youth, focusing on enhancing their social and emotional wellbeing.   
  • Sportsperson of the Year: Danielle Ponter, celebrated for her outstanding achievements in Australian rules football and as a role model for young people, often giving back to her local community and helping the next generation of young AFLW footballers. 
  • Innovation Award: Blak Brews, acknowledged for their exciting work in Indigenous business and bringing culture into everyday spaces through their tea and coffee company. 

We would also like to give special praise to our good friend Lizzie Adams, CEO at Goolburri Aboriginal Health Advancement Corporation Ltd, who was honoured with the Community Champion Award at the Toowoomba NAIDOC Dinner and Awards Night on Saturday. This recognition celebrates her unwavering dedication to advancing Aboriginal health and wellbeing, a cause to which she has devoted her heart and soul. Lizzie’s visionary leadership and passion has helped shape Goolburri into a beacon of cultural strength, healing and support.

If you would like to know more about the NAIDOC Award Winners, click here.

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