Celebrating the extraordinary people shaping South Australia
More than 280 guests gathered on Thursday 5 November at the Adelaide Convention Centre for the 2027 Australian of the Year Awards for South Australia, recognising 16 extraordinary South Australians whose stories, achievements and deep commitment to others are making a lasting difference across our state and beyond.
From pioneering advancements in healthcare and space technology to championing education, protecting our environment, advocating against sexual violence and volunteering in emergency and crisis services, they showcase the very best of who we are.
At the heart of each story was a simple but inspiring truth: seeing a need, finding the courage to act and choosing to make things better for others. Together, the nominees embody the quiet strength of those who challenge the status quo, push boundaries and create new possibilities for our state and nation.
We proudly announced South Australia’s 2027 Australian of the Year Award recipients:
- Australian of the Year – Dr Fariba Behnia-Willison
- Senior Australian of the Year – Dr Roger Hunt
- Young Australian of the Year – Edward Robinson
- Local Hero – Neil Davis
These recipients truly reflect the spirit of our state and we are honoured to amplify their stories and stand beside them in the coming year.
The evening was made all the more special by the presence and support of The Honourable Katrine Hildyard MP, representing the Premier of South Australia, The Honourable Laura Stein, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Mr Steve Georganas MP, Member for Adelaide, ADCSA Chair Michelle Cox, MC Sonya Feldhoff, Uncle Frank Wanganeen, Festival Statesmen Chorus and St Aloysius College Band. We are grateful to everyone who attended and helped make the occasion such a memorable celebration of South Australian achievement.
We also farewelled our 2026 South Australians of the Year – Katherine Bennell-Pegg, Mac Benoy, James Currie, Chloe Wyatt-Jasper and Ayesha Safdar – and thanked them for an incredible year. It has been a privilege to share their journeys, champion their work and witness the remarkable things they continue to achieve. We look forward to welcoming them into our alumni community and continuing to support them in everything that lies ahead.
There is something truly special about being South Australian. It is the people, the generosity, the determination and the quiet commitment to making our corner of the world a little better.
Congratulations to our 2027 recipients and all 16 nominees. South Australia has every reason to be proud.
