In recognition of his outstanding contribution to humanism in action as a social critic and commentator on Australian society for more than fifty years. In particular for his strong advocacy of liberal democracy, multiculturalism, tolerance, republicanism and the recognition of indigenes as Australia’s first people.

In recognition of one of Australia’s best known and most decorated songwriters and performers, who has nationally and internationally captured the spirit of the Australian nation and advanced the ethos of Humanism through his perceptive and individual song writing with its exposure of racism, bigotry, war mongering and injustice of all kinds.

In recognition of his outstanding contribution to Australian history, in particular his research which significantly revises our knowledge of British Colonial policy on native land rights. As a valued consultant to governments, media and community groups, both in Australia and overseas, he has contributed to a profound change in the way the history of the relations between indigenous and other Australians are understood.