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"On the eve of Australia Day, I am more optimistic about Australia than ever before," declared Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, encapsulating the prevailing spirit as we usher in this significant day. He communicated his vision: "If we respond to the challenges before us with hope, with vision, with ambition and determination - we can make this, the greatest country on earth, even greater in the future." Australia Day thus becomes a perfect opportunity to reflect on our good fortune and the values that have sculpted our nation's character—a character defined by generations of hard work, sacrifice, and cooperation.
Eight years ago, I initiated the Australian Leadership Project to investigate the peculiar dichotomy of Australians' views on leadership—perceived negatively at home despite international acclaim for our optimism. The conclusion was reassuring; Australian leadership was robust, yet the domestic pessimism was puzzling. The real breakthrough came at the end of 2017, identifying not a leadership issue but a 'fog of pessimism' that needed dispersing. Today, as we celebrate Australia Day, acknowledging our people's achievements casts a brilliant light on the optimistic leadership among us.
In the arena of such leadership, Robert Masters and Catherine Fritz-Kalish stand tall, honoured for their significant contributions. Masters, with his astute belief that "Leadership and optimism are the two key elements the community wants in today's unsettled world," has played a pivotal role in steering communities through his sound, confident and stable leadership. His philosophy aligns with the Positive Leadership Taskforce's principles, promoting an infectiously optimistic approach to leadership.
Catherine Fritz-Kalish's optimism is equally influential. She shares, "What makes me optimistic? Watching my children achieve the things they want. Talking to people who have visions for the future. Surrounding myself with people who contribute to the well-being of the community." Her words and actions reflect a leadership style that is visionary and community-oriented, vital for nurturing a society geared towards collective well-being and progress.
Joining these esteemed individuals are Richard Scolyer and Georgina Long, the 2024 Australians of the Year, whose exceptional work in melanoma research and Scolyer's personal battle against Grade 4 glioblastoma underscore the resilience and optimism that are hallmarks of Australian leadership in science and beyond. They exemplify the belief in the transformative power of optimism in all spheres of life, including the medical field.
As we observe Australia Day, we honour our past and present and embrace the potential of a future shaped by leaders brimming with infectious optimism. It's a future where every Australian plays a part in enhancing the community's well-being and where challenges are met with hope and determination. Our collective optimism is a powerful tool capable of shaping a future that reflects the very best of what it means to be Australian.
What makes you optimistic for Australia?
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