Paris Aristotle AM has been honoured with the title of Victorian Australian of the Year for 2017, thanks to his ongoing commitment in advocating for refugees and asylum seekers.
The official ceremony, held on Tuesday night, was hosted by Governor of Victoria Linda Dessau AM, and those gathered had the chance to hear about Mr Aristotle’s admirable work.
“Paris Aristotle has made an enormous contribution by helping countless people rebuild their lives in Australia after surviving torture and trauma in their countries of origin,” said a statement from the Australian Of the Year Awards Council.
Among his many achievements, Mr Aristotle was responsible for establishing the Victorian Foundation for Survivors of Torture, known as Foundation House, in 1988, which has continued to grow and assist refugees with trauma rehabilitation.
“He has helped refugees recover from unspeakable trauma, through a range of mental health, health, advocacy, educational and community services,” read the statement, and that he had “demonstrated patience, personal integrity and practical skill as he navigates what is often an ethical and political minefield”.
Currently the chair of two federal government councils − the Settlement Services Advisory Council and the Minister’s Council on Asylum Seekers and Detention − Mr Aristotle has played a significant role in advising both sides of politics on refugee and asylum seeker policy, and assisted the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees with resettlement.
Awarded alongside Mr Aristotle were 72-year-old Indigenous educator Lois Peeler AM, who was named 2017 Victorian Senior Australian of the Year.
Victorian Young Australian of the Year was 28-year-old diversity and inclusion champion Jason Ball, and Victorian Local Hero was Warrnambool community fundraiser Vicki Jellie.
Governor Dessau congratulated all finalists and recipients and recognised their contribution to the state of Victoria.
“There is no question that they make us all better for what they have done and are doing, whether it is by improving our physical or mental health, promoting social inclusion and accessibility, supporting the victims of torture, family violence or sexual abuse, or addressing specific needs in the refugee, indigenous or veteran communities,” she said.
“Importantly, each of the finalists has taken action and in doing so has helped to build not only a vibrant and innovative country, but also a caring, compassionate and fairer one.”
All recipients will join those from other parts of Australia for the national awards, which are due to be announced on 25 January, 2017 in Canberra.