Congratulations to the 2012 Young Australian of the Year, Marita Cheng from Victoria. Marita established Robogals, a student driven organisation that encourages young women to learn about science, engineering and technology through fun and engaging educational activities. Robogals now has 17 branches across Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.
The AYF also acknowledges the amazing achievements and contributions of all the Award nominees and the following state and territory finalists:
- Rebecca Healy (NT) – Carer and volunteer
- Greg Irons (Tas) - Wildlife rescue campaigner
- David Pocock (WA) - Rugby champion and philanthropist
- Dr Sam Prince (ACT) - Doctor and entrepreneur
- Chris Raine (Qld) - Anti-binge drinking Campaigner
- Rebecca Richards (SA) - Anthropologist
- Jennifer Star (NSW) - Youth educator.