Aboriginal AFL star Adam Goodes has been named 2014 Australian of the Year and made it clear he would use the honour as another platform to fight against racism.
The 34-year-old Australian rules player was given the award for his leadership and advocacy in tackling racism, both on the sporting field and in society more broadly.
"My hope is that we as a nation can break down the silos between races, break down those stereotypes of minority populations," the sportsman told the crowd at the Canberra ceremony. His mother Lisa, a member of the Stolen Generations, was among those at the event.
"The ultimate reward is when all Australians see each other as equals, and treat each other as equals."
Prime Minister Tony Abbott (left) presents Adam Goodes with the Australian of the Year Award. Photo: AAP
An indigenous Andyamathanha man, the Sydney Swans legend holds an elite place in AFL history with two Brownlow Medals and two premierships.
He is actively involved with several indigenous sport and community programmes, and has spent time working with troubled youngsters, including in youth detention centres.
Together with his cousin and former teammate Michael O'Loughlin, he established the GO Foundation which seeks to empower the next generation of indigenous role models.
Last year, the focus shifted momentarily from Goodes' outstanding playing ability to racism when a teenage girl called Goodes an "ape" from the grandstand. He turned the incident into an tool to teach indigenous Australians and minority groups to say no to racism.
Prime Minister Tony Abbott said Goodes was a role model for many Australians, who demonstrated a commitment to fairness and equality both on and off the sports field.
Former federal politician Fred Chaney, 72, was also honoured for his commitment to indigenous rights, being named Senior Australian of the Year. Paralympic swimmer Jacqueline Freney, 21, was named Young Australian of the Year.
Almost 700 people receiveD Order of Australia awards in the Australia Day honours on Sunday.
