In a momentous occasion at the Batchelor Institute's 50th Anniversary Gala Dinner, Charlie King AM, renowned Gurindji man, was awarded an honorary doctorate in recognition of his decades of service to First Nations communities across the Northern Territory and beyond.
The honorary doctorate, conferred by Batchelor Institute, honours Dr King's tireless work in media, his leadership in the campaign to end family violence, and his unwavering commitment to social justice.
Dr King is best known for founding the NO MORE Campaign, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at addressing domestic and family violence in communities across Australia.
His inspiring advocacy has brought about significant change, empowering communities to stand together against violence.
"To truly empower our people, we must engage with them at every level. It's through listening, understanding, and working together that we create real, lasting change," Dr King said in his acceptance speech.
His message, 'engage to empower,' resonated deeply with the audience and underscored his life's work of bringing people together to create safer, stronger communities.
Pat Anderson AO, Chairperson of the Batchelor Institute Council, said "Charlie King has been a source of pride for First Nations people".
"He has provided a positive role model for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people over many decades in the media.
"He has used his public profile to champion the issue of domestic and family violence through founding the very successful NO MORE campaign.
"We are incredibly proud to honour him with this doctorate," said Ms Anderson.
The honorary doctorate is a testament to Dr King's enduring impact on First Nations communities, and his leadership in advocating for social justice.
Dr King's work has not only brought critical issues to the forefront but has also inspired a generation of leaders and change-makers.
The Gala Dinner was a highlight of Batchelor Institute's week-long 50th-anniversary celebrations, bringing together alumni, government officials, and community leaders to honour the past, present, and future of Australia's oldest First Nations-led tertiary institution.
