Australian Marriage Equality national director Rodney Croome is one of five Australian’s shortlisted for this year’s Human Rights Medal.

Australia’s Human Rights Commissioner Gillian Triggs praised Croome’s unwavering commitment to achieving equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex Australians.

“Mr Croome’s capacity to build community support for much-needed legal reform and positive social change continues to have a significant impact on Australia,” Professor Triggs said.

Mr Croome first rose to prominence as an activist for his leadership in the successful campaign to decriminalise homosexuality in Tasmania and development of LGBTI policies in Tasmanian health, policing and education.

Mr Croome has received a number of honours for his work, including the Centenary Medal for his service to the LGBTIQ community and in June 2003 was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for his life’s work.

The four nominees vying for the award alongside Mr Croome are Indigenous footballer Adam Goodes, Al-Jazeera journalist Peter Greste, Muslim leader and anti-domestic violence campaigner Maha Krayem Abdo and Aboriginal psychologist Professor Pat Dudgeon.

“These five outstanding Australians have come from different walks of life but they share a commitment to freedom, justice and equality,” Professor Triggs said.

“We honour not only these five shortlisted Australians, but all of the people and organisations nominated for this year’s human rights awards.”

OIP Staff