Last night, David was presented the award by Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull at Parliament House for hiscommitment to gender equality, diversity and inclusion.
“For reasons beyond education, or professional qualifications, or willingness to contribute, or a desire to be a part of our society and our community, too many of our fellow Australians are denied the opportunity to reach their potential,” David said.
“It happens because of their gender, because of the god they believe in, because of their racial heritage, because they’re not able-bodied, because of their sexual orientation, and we as a nation … should be able to give them the chance to reach their potential.”
The Lieutenant General, who retired last year after 36 years in the Army, added, “Because when they do, we all benefit, and that’s what true diversity is about and why I am so passionate about it and so honoured to have been chosen as your Australian of the Year in 2016.”
Harry with the army official (Far Right) during his 2015 visit to Australia.
Over the next year General Morrison hopes to focus on three areas, including domestic violence, diversity and the gender pay gap and the republican movement.
“It is time, I think, to at least revisit the question so that we can stand both free and fully independent amongst the community of nations,” he said.
Professor Gordian Fulde with Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.
Also honoured in yesterday’s ceremony was the Senior Australian of the Year, Professor Gordian Fulde.
He received the award for his work as the director of emergency at St Vincent’s Hospital and Sydney Hospital for more than three decades.
“We really do not need to be drunk and ugly or out of it to enjoy this fantastic country Australia. In Australia, we really do look after our mates and each other.,” he said adding that the award was not about him but rather “us as a community”.
Malcolm Turnbull poses with 2016 Young Australian of the Year Nic Marchesi and Lucas Patchett.
Snagging the Young Australian of the Year were best friends, Nic Marchesi and Lucas Patchett. The best mates set up Orange Sky Laundry in 2014, a free laundry in their old van to help the homeless across the country.
It is the first time the award has been presented to two people.
Lucas admitted they had washed 70,000 kilos of clothes and have had over 15,000 volunteering hours across six services in Australia.
“Tonight, we challenge all of us to grow Orange Sky, to help all Australians volunteer, to raise awareness, but most importantly, restore that basic human right of clean clothes and conversations,” Nic said.
Congratulations to all the deserving winners!
