Neale Daniher named 2025 Australian of the Year

Neale Daniher, a former AFL player and co-founder of the FightMND charity, has been named the 2025 Australian of the Year for his efforts in raising over $100 million for motor neurone disease research. Daniher, diagnosed with MND in 2013, has become a public figure for the illness, inspiring many through his ongoing battle and fundraising initiatives, including The Big Freeze event. The awards ceremony in Canberra also recognized Brother Thomas Oliver Pickett as Senior Australian of the Year for co-founding Wheelchairs for Kids, Dr. Katrina Wruck as Young Australian of the Year for her work in environmental chemistry, and Vanessa Brettell and Hannah Costello as Local Heroes for their community-focused café. The 2025 Australian of the Year Awards will take place on January 25, featuring trophies specially crafted at the Australian National University. Each trophy undergoes a meticulous creation process, taking months to complete. The awards highlight the contributions of Australians making a significant impact in their communities.