Former Socceroo and human rights activist Craig Foster has been named NSW Australian of the Year for 2023.
In spite of his achievements as a Socceroo, Mr Foster is increasingly known as a fierce advocate for human rights and anti-racism. In 2019 he played an key role in rescuing Bahraini footballer and refugee Hakeem al-Araibi from a prison in Thailand, where he was facing extradition to and likely persecution in Bahrain.
Foster is a fierce campaigner for other refugees stuck in detention. He also helped the Afghanistan Women’s National Football team, and other women and girls escape Afghanistan when the Taliban seized control in August last year.
In his acceptance speech, Foster urged all Australians to do what they can to contribute to “active multiculturalism”.
“When one of our beautiful multicultural communities is in trouble, it’s all of our responsibilities to reach out the hand and step across that line. When one of our faith groups is attacked all of us must support them immediately,” he said.
Born in Lismore, in northern New South Wales, 53 year old Foster played for the Socceroos 29 times. He will be part of the SBS broadcast team covering the FIFA World Cup in Qatar starting later this month. After considering boycotting the event, Foster decided to take part from Sydney and use the opportunity to discuss human rights issues such as the treatment of homosexuals and women.
Born in Lismore, in northern New South Wales, Foster made his debut for Sydney United in 1988. He played for the Socceroos 29 times.
Despite his stance on human rights issues, Foster will be part of the SBS broadcast team covering the FIFA World Cup in Qatar starting later this month.
After considering boycotting the event, Foster decided to take part from Sydney and use the opportunity to discuss human rights issues such as the treatment of homosexuals and women.
Foster is also involved in the Australian Republic Movement.
Turbans 4 Australia founder Amar Singh took the NSW Local Hero honour for his work promoting multiculturalism and religious tolerance, all the while delivering funds and supplies to vulnerable Australians hit by bushfires, floods and the pandemic of the past few years.
Lottie Dalziel, founder of sustainability group Banish, won the Young Australian of the Year award, while the NSW Senior Australian of the Year award was given to 89-year-old palliative care advocate Teresa Plane.
The winners will represent NSW at next year’s Australia Day honours, where they will be in the running to receive the Australian of the Year awards.
