Indigenous Australians have had a significant impact on society throughout 2025. In the final days of the calendar year, National Indigenous Times highlights some of this year's Indigenous success stories, change makers and trailblazers, all of which have had a profound influence in their particular field.

Most Influential: Malarndirri McCarthy

As Minister for Indigenous Australians, Malarndirri McCarthy was one of the most influential figures in Indigenous affairs in 2025. Her leadership on Closing the Gap accountability and intergovernmental reform has shaped the national agenda at the highest level.

Truth-teller of the Year: Travis Lovett

Travis Lovett's truth-telling and leadership throughout 2025 was defined by action. His Walk for Truth, supporting the work of Victoria's Yoorrook Justice Commission, brought national attention to the unfinished business of truth, justice and accountability. Mr Lovett's advocacy has remained grounded in community responsibility and historical honesty, insisting Australia confront its past with integrity.

Justice Advocate of the Year: Mechelle Turvey and Nadene Dodd (joint)

Mechelle Turvey transformed personal tragedy into national advocacy following the death of her son Cassius Turvey. In 2025 she continued to demand justice, accountability and reform, refusing to allow systemic racism and violence to be buried by time or process.

Nadene Dodd's advocacy following the death of her son, Cleveland Dodd, in youth detention has been both relentless and courageous. Her public campaigning has forced renewed scrutiny on Western Australia's youth justice system, including Unit 18, and continues to push governments towards genuine reform.

Most Polarising: Jacinta Nampijinpa Price and Lidia Thorpe (joint)

Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price remains one of the most polarising Indigenous figures in Australian public life. In 2025, her outspoken positions on crime, culture and constitutional recognition continued to attract fierce debate, cementing her role as a figure who reshapes political conversations, whether welcomed or contested.

Senator Lidia Thorpe has been equally divisive, confronting state power, policing and incarceration with uncompromising force. Her refusal to conform to parliamentary norms and vocal defence of civil liberties have made her one of the most talked-about and debated voices in the country.

Entertainer of the Year: BARKAA

BARKAA's 2025 was a year of undeniable cultural impact. Through acclaimed releases, national awards and relentless live performances, she continued to challenge Australia with unfiltered truth, political clarity and artistic confidence. Her music speaks directly to sovereignty, survival and strength, making her one of the country's most important contemporary artists.

Sportsperson of the Year: Ash Gardner and Reece Walsh (joint)

Ash Gardner continued her dominance in 2025 as one of international cricket's most complete all-rounders, producing match-winning performances for Australia while remaining a central figure in the national side's success across all formats. Beyond statistics, Gardner has consistently used her platform to speak openly about mental health and cultural pride, reinforcing her standing as both an elite athlete and a leader.

Reece Walsh's 2025 season confirmed his status as one of rugby league's most influential players. His impact for both the Brisbane Broncos and the Kangaroos was marked by game-breaking speed, creativity and confidence under pressure. Walsh's maturity and professionalism have silenced critics and established him as a generational talent.

Academic of the Year: Marcia Langton

Professor Marcia Langton remains one of Australia's most influential Indigenous academics. In 2025 she played a central role in public debates on Indigenous procurement, governance and accountability, bringing intellectual rigour and historical clarity to national policy conversations.

Artist of the Year: Gaypalani Waṉambi

Gaypalani Waṉambi's win at the 2025 Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards marked a major cultural moment. Her work reflects deep Yolŋu knowledge, family lineage and contemporary strength, reinforcing the central place of Indigenous art in Australia's cultural life.

Activist of the Year: Sue-Anne Hunter

Sue-Anne Hunter's appointment as Australia's first National Commissioner for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children and Young People reflects decades of fearless advocacy. In 2025 she continued to confront child removal, incarceration and systemic neglect with clarity and resolve.

Fashion Designer of the Year: Clair Helen Parker

Clair Helen Parker's work in 2025 reinforced her place as one of Australia's leading Indigenous fashion designers. Her collections combine cultural storytelling with contemporary design, earning national recognition and global attention.

Indigenous Businessperson of the Year: Amanda Healy

Amanda Healy's leadership at Warrikal has helped build one of Australia's most successful Indigenous-owned engineering and services companies. Her transition to chair in 2025 marked a shift towards long-term governance and legacy building.

Model of the Year: Billie-Jean Hamlet

Internationally recognised model Billie-Jean Hamlet used her success in 2025 to give back, mentoring young women in the Fitzroy Valley and creating pathways into fashion and creative industries. Her impact extends well beyond the runway.

Elder of the Year: Rosalie Kickett and Phillip Hall (joint)

Aunty Rosalie Kickett and Uncle Phillip Hall were recognised in 2025 for a lifetime of service to culture, community and leadership. Their contribution reflects the enduring authority of Elders whose work often occurs away from public attention but underpins community strength.

Medical Professional of the Year: Dr Daniel Hunt

Dr Daniel Hunt has demonstrated outstanding leadership in Indigenous health, championing culturally safe, community-controlled services. His recognition as NAIDOC Person of the Year in 2025 acknowledged both his clinical expertise and systemic impact.

Student of the Year: Shakayla Walley-Wihongi

Noongar medical student Shakayla Walley-Wihongi distinguished herself in 2025 through research and clinical excellence, contributing to pioneering work on improved syphilis treatment pathways. Her academic success is matched by a clear commitment to addressing real-world health inequities affecting First Nations communities.