Federal Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey MP has called on the Prime Minister to raise the matter of lowering the age eligibility for Young Australian of the Year with the National Australia Day Council.
The call comes to allow the nomination of 12-year-old community champion Dusty, who has just completed a 540km walk from Warren in the electorate of Parkes to Canberra, successfully raising more than $1 million for Little Wings, and securing a Federal Government funding partnership for them for the next two years.
The funding will allow Little Wings to continue to help thousands of children by sending paediatricians to regional and remote towns, so families don’t have to wait for help for their sick kids.
“Dusty’s idea, his commitment and his dedication have inspired people across the country,” Mr Chaffey said. “If Dusty can’t be PM, then at the very least the community should have the opportunity to nominate him for the Young Australian of the Year.
“Currently, the lower age limit is 16. I have called on the Prime Minister to consider lowering it to the age of 12.
“We all know that Dusty’s intention was never to gain accolades – he is a very humble young man – but if anyone deserves this recognition, it is Dusty. His achievements in not only personally raising more than $500,000, but gaining the long-awaited promise of additional $500,000 and two years in funding from the Albanese Federal Government is a phenomenal feat for anyone, let alone a 12-year-old.
“His achievements demonstrate that leadership, service and community impact are not defined by age.
“Lowering the minimum age to 12 would allow exceptional younger Australians such as Dusty to be considered on their merits, and would recognise the meaningful contribution children can make to their communities and to the nation.
“This would encourage other young Australians to serve their communities, pursue great goals, and develop the leadership qualities that will shape the future generation of our nation’s leaders.
“I can’t congratulate Dusty, his family and supporters enough, and I truly believe Australia should have the opportunity to do the same.”
ENDS
Media contact: Marie Low | 0491 940 108 | marie.low@aph.gov.au