Ash Barty Awarded Person Of The Year At 2022 National NAIDOC Week Celebrations

Recently retired Aussie tennis star Ash Barty has been named Person of the Year at the 2022 National NAIDOC Week Awards.

A proud Ngaragu woman, the three-time tennis grand slam singles champion was awarded for her contribution to youth sport and education.

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The second Australian woman after Evonne Goolagong Cawley to hold the world no. 1 ranking, Barty announced her retirement after winning the Australian Open women’s singles title. 

Currently in the US competing for a golf tournament, Barty said in a video message that she was humbled and privileged to receive the award. 

"I can't wait to continue my contribution to youth sport and education," she said.

"Helping inspire kids to go after their dreams is something I am very passionate about and I am committed to giving back in this next chapter of my life."

- Ash Barty

The theme of this years NAIDOC Week was "Get Up! Stand Up! Show Up!", urges all Australians to continue calling for systemic change.

Celebrating all the heroes who have driven and led change over generations, the annual event is held in the first week of July each year.

Other award recipients include two-time premiership-winning AFL player Lance "Buddy" Franklin and actor and former self-described serial pest, and member of the Stolen Generation Uncle Jack Charles.

Other 2022 NAIDOC Award winners included: 

• Person of the Year – Ash Barty 
• Lifetime Achievement Award – Dr Stanley Grant Snr
• Female Elder of the Year – Dr Lois Peeler
• Male Elder of the Year – Uncle Jack Charles
• Caring for Country and Culture – Walter Jackson
• Youth of the Year – Elijah Manis
• Creative Talent Award – Lowell Hunter
• Education Award – Professor Bronwyn Fredericks
• Innovation Award – Koori Mail
• Sportsperson of the Year – Buddy Franklin