The University of Newcastle is today presenting an award to the Governor-General of Australia, Ms Quentin Bryce AC CVO, for Outstanding Contribution to the Australian Community.

The Family Action Centre established the award in 1998 to recognise the work of Australians who make meaningful contributions to the community at all levels.

Centre Director Judi Geggie said the Governor-General was selected to receive the award because of her significant contribution to the community over more than three decades, in particular her work with remote Indigenous communities.

“As Governor-General, Ms Bryce has highlighted the issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in remote parts of Australia,” she said.

“She supports Indigenous initiatives and raises awareness of them across the country.  

“In both her personal and professional lives, Ms Bryce has demonstrated her belief in the value of community,” Ms Geggie said.

“Ms Bryce embodies everything the Family Action Centre stands for - strengthening families and communities through the values of sustainability, social justice and community leadership.

“Few people have given as much to Australia as the Governor-General.  She holds an outstanding record of service to the community as a lawyer, academic, senior public office holder, Governor of Queensland and now as Governor-General of Australia.”

Ms Bryce is the 11th person to receive the award.  Previous recipients include former Governor-General Sir William Deane, former Lady Mayoress of Newcastle Margaret McNaughton, World Vision Australia CEO Dr Tim Costello AO, and child protection academic Professor Dorothy Scott.

The Family Action Centre is a part of the Faculty of Health at the University of Newcastle.  It is self-funded, with assistance from the University, the NSW and Australian governments, and private and philanthropic organisations.

This year the Family Action Centre is joining with the University’s Wollotuka Institute to present the Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Australian Community.

The Governor-General will receive the award this afternoon at a private meeting at Admiralty House in Sydney with University representatives.

Media contact:  Katie Porritt, the University of Newcastle Media and Public Relations, on 02 4921 5120 or 0418 445 888.