PRESIDENT’S AWARD

The President’s Award was established to recognise the contribution made by an individual or organisation that has strengthened JOY through their extraordinary commitment and contribution to JOY, and the wider LGBTQIA+ communities

This award is presented at the discretion of the JOY President.

2025

David “Macca” McCarthy

2024

Minister for Equality, Hon. Harriet Shing

As the only Equality Minister in Australia, Harriett Shing has been a tireless advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community, playing a role in supporting and advancing the work of JOY. Her commitment to equality has been evident not only in her personal advocacy but also in her professional capacity as a Minister, where she has used her platform to create real, positive change for our community. Through her leadership, Harriett has been instrumental in securing vital support and recognition for LGBTQIA+ organisations across the state. Her ongoing backing of JOY and other community groups has set a new benchmark for State Government engagement, highlighting the importance of visibility, equality and the celebration of our diverse community. Her support extends beyond just policy and funding – it is about understanding the heart of what community-driven organisations like JOY represent and how they serve as a lifeline for many. Harriett has consistently demonstrated that true leadership is not only about making laws but about empowering communities and ensuring their voices are heard.

Congratulations, Harriett and thank you for being such a powerful ally and a driving force for positive change!

2023

Victorian Commissioner for LGBTIQA+ Communities, Todd Fernando

Todd was appointed Victoria’s second LGBTIQA+ Commissioner in 2021. For all of this time, he has been an incredibly strong and tireless advocate for our LGBTIQA+ community. As an advocate for justice and equality, the remit has been large; Todd has engaged across the state of Victoria. Todd’s support for JOY and his role in advocating and securing funding for JOY during COVID and after has been incredibly significant, and JOY would not be in the position it is in today without that support. Todd has announced his retirement from the LGBTIQA+ Commissioner’s role, and despite this I know that we will benefit from his advice and support in years to come.

2022

Ande K

Ande has been a JOY member of many years, and has been a tireless contributor both on air and off air to JOY’s culture and mission.

Ande has produced a number of artworks for JOY over the years that have been successfully auctioned, providing significant levels of financial support for JOY. He has taken on doing a daytime onair shift on a number of occasions at short notice, as well as producing and presenting Black, White and Rainbow.

2021

Lord Mayor of Melbourne, the Honourable Sally Capp

As a JOY Ambassador Lord Mayor Sally Capp has tirelessly supported the work and goals of JOY both as an individual and as Lord Mayor of Melbourne. The City of Melbourne under Sally’s leadership has been incredibly supportive of JOY as our Landlord at City Village. The equality and recognition initiatives of the City of Melbourne have set a benchmark for local Government support and recognition of our LGBTQIA+ COMMUNITY. It is with great pleasure that we recognise your leadership with the 2021 Presidents Award.

2020

Hon. Martin Foley MP

JOY awarded Hon. Martin Foley MP, Minister for Health and Equality, the inaugural President’s Award, in recognition for his extraordinary commitment and contribution to JOY and to the LGBTIQA+ community.

Minister Foley was the guest speaker at the (AGM) meeting, where he highlighted the achievements of the community to date, and the importance of continued work in building a more inclusive Australia.