Ideally it would be someone who has a connection to the open skies and the wide space of our shared homeland.

A connection to the smell of eucalyptus, the blossom of the wattle, and to our magnificent fauna. A connection to the great Southern Cross which helps light up our sky at night and keeps a watchful eye over our national destiny.

Celebrating the creed of country puts Indigenous Australians right at the centre of our national story where they belong. It acknowledges Indigenous Australians special connection to our great land. Love of our big country is our biggest pride. The creed of country should be a creed that unites us all.

I would like to see an Aboriginal person who has contributed to their community be made Australian of the year - just once.

Other than that - it would have to be someone who works towards giving
relentlessly to others - along the likes of Fred Hollows for example.

I too would prefer it not to be a 'celebrity' or a 'sports star'
but a genuine contributor to society.

T.V directors, this is a free one from EVO. If it is done right, it will be bigger than BIG BROTHER and the real Australian's will be seen.

Just a thought.

I hear you Foxy.

The mass media! If you have good relations with them, if they need you, if you are useful to them then sure you will be an Australian of the year!
The government has enough power to increase your chances to become an Australian of the Year. How many votes do you control? How many votes can you bring to the governing party? You are good! let's award you!
Non government organizations. They have very good name. Can you find any back door or window open and win their support or a good word from them? Then sure every one will stand by you, even me!
Are you a minority leader and top class YESman? Then you have big chances to become an Australian of the year.
Are you a good scientist? can you recreate the Tasmanian Tiger? Then you will be and you will deserve to be an Australian of the Year!
Antonios Symeonakis
Adelaid