Australia Day address to Auspire

It has been two months since we met at Government House in Perth. Already we have seen the WA nominees take their message, their mission, further. Showing that these awards ensure the entire community wins. No matter who the final recipient is.

Our WA 2024 Australian of the Year recipients are even more determined now than when they were first announced. Ready for what will be an incredibly memorable, impactful week in Canberra. A week which places a much needed spotlight on important issues. And generates powerful national discussions. Part of a week that brings Australians together. Sharing stories and ideas for our future. Recognising there is not one homogenous Australia Day. It means something different to every one of the 27 million Australians. Because we are all part of the story of Australia. And Australia Day is about celebrating the nation we are building together. An Australia that is stronger because of the Australian of the year.

Now, after the timeless elegance of Government House. I bet some of you expected a more formal send off. I know what you are thinking. We started at the grandeur of Government House. Now have the pungent splendour of a zoo. So what will Canberra be like?

Today’s venue is the perfect preparation for your Canberra adventure. Hear me out… Parliament House has the Kangaroo and the Emu on the crest. Instead of zebras with stripes, in Canberra, we have suits with stripes. Some in Canberra hunt in packs, normally in the press gallery. You will find peacocks strutting their policies. Question Time can be as chaotic as a feeding frenzy. Interjections pop out of nowhere like meerkats on lookout. The Speaker could probably take some hints from the Perth zookeepers on trying to maintain order amidst all the cacophony. It is a spectacle, no doubt, but it's also a reminder of the passionate voices that make up our democracy.

Meaning of Australia Day

And it is passionate voices that make Australia the great country it is. As Australians, there is much of which we can be proud. Our democracy, our values. The strength, diversity and generosity of our people. And our beautiful natural environment. And Australia Day, our national day, is about the ever-evolving story of our nation. Our history, our lives and most of all our people.

What Australia Day means to each of us depends on who we are, where we come from, and how we came to be Australian. Australia Day is a day for all Australians to reflect, respect and celebrate. This Australia Day, pause and reflect on the timeless history of our nation. 65,000 years, or more than 2,500 generations – of history and continuous culture. It is a day to acknowledge the past, respect and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ survival, resilience and enduring culture. Australia Day is your day, and can be marked your way. And to celebrate living in a nation where everyone’s views, beliefs and contributions are valued. It is about connection as much as it is about conversation.

WA recipients

Our 2024 WA recipients understand that conversations become big, lasting change. Our 2024 WA recipients are not just phenomenal Western Australians. They are phenomenal Australians.

Mechelle Turvey. Mechelle has shown the strongest courage and resilience in the face of unimaginable tragedy. We celebrate her life-long mission to support victims of crime and their families. Mechelle, your strength and advocacy are an inspiration to us all.

Charlie Bass, the founder of the Centre for Entrepreneurial Research and Innovation, a breeding ground for countless start-ups. Charlie, you are planting the seeds of a sustainable future for WA.

Kate Kirwin, the visionary founder of She Codes. Empowering women to step into the world of tech with newfound confidence and community. Kate, you are building a brighter tomorrow, one line of code at a time.

And Nick Hudson, the push-up king, has raised a staggering $40 million for mental health! Nick, you have inspired millions to move their bodies and minds, sparking crucial conversations.

Mechelle, Charlie, Kate and Nick – thank you for all you have achieved. I am thrilled to be here this evening to wish you well on your journey east.

Conclusion

We all know that none of you set out to win at the National Awards. Because you are already making significant contributions to our nation. But your messages deserve a national platform. And I look forward to joining you in Canberra as you continue to change Australia for the better. Congratulations, and good luck!