CDU alumnus makes Australian Human Rights Awards shortlist

A Charles Darwin University (CDU) alumnus and tireless senior rights advocate has been named a finalist for this year’s Australian Human Rights Awards.  

Ramnik Singh Walia has been recognised in the Community category for his work towards driving equality and inclusion for seniors, people with disabilities, and First Peoples communities in the Northern Territory’s most remote regions.  

Mr Walia has contributed to some of the Territory’s major accessibility developments and said the recognition as a finalist was testament to the NT’s increasingly inclusive, respectful, and compassionate environment.

With advocacy projects such as the installation of a disability passenger lift at Maningrida Airport and accessibility measure implemented at Mandorah’s ferry terminal under his belt, Mr Walia said advocacy wasn’t just a win for one person, but the community.

“When we come together with respect and determination, change isn’t just possible – it’s inevitable,” he said.

“These wins and others like them in the NT inspire Territorians to speak up for human rights and fairness.”

Mr Walia has previously received the Northern Territory Human Rights Award in Diversity and the CDU Community Services Award for Alumni in 2024.

Though he originally trained as a journalist, Mr Walia also completed a Certificate III in Individual Support (Aged Care and Community Services) at CDU, graduating in 2020.

“My journalism background helped me to investigate and tell stories, but CDU taught me how to make real changes from the grassroots level,” Mr Walia said.

The winners for this year’s Australian Human Rights Awards will be announced at a ceremony in Sydney on December 12.