Since 1987, HREOC has recognised the often extraordinary contribution made to Australian society by a variety of men and women committed to issues of human rights, social justice and equality through these awards.

"The Human Rights Medal and Awards celebrate their 20th anniversary this year and provide an excellent opportunity to acknowledge the outstanding contributions of individuals and organisations by nominating them for these prestigious awards," Mr von Doussa said.

"You don’t have to be famous or well known for your efforts to enter – the medal and awards are about celebrating the efforts of those who work tirelessly everyday without fuss to promote and protect human rights and to overcome discrimination in Australia."

Each year HREOC receives outstanding nominations for the Human Rights Medal and award categories of Law, Community (individual and organisation), Arts Non-Fiction, Print Media, Television and Radio.

"Former winners have made an outstanding contribution within their communities or done so through the practice of law, through writing books about human rights issues or through their work in the media," Mr von Doussa said.

But don’t just nominate someone, please join us at the gala luncheon ceremony at the Sheraton on the Park in Sydney on Monday, 10 December to hear the winners announced and show your support for the 20th anniversary of these special awards.