Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has spoken in the House of Representatives, honouring the life of Aussie rules champion and motor neurone disease campaigner Neale Daniher, who has died after a long battle with the disease.
“In 2013 after an extraordinary and decorated VFL, AFL career as both player and then coach, Neale Daniher was diagnosed with motor neurone disease. At that point, the average life expectancy was just 27 months. Instead, through 13 years, Neil fought what he called the beast with the courage, optimism and passion that brought hope and inspiration into the lives of everyone affected by MND,” Albanese said.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese with Neale Daniher after naming him Australian of the Year in 2025. Alex Ellinghausen
“The devastating impacts of motor neurone disease stole so much from Neale, but he held on to everything that people loved and admired about him, his selflessness, his bravery, his humour, his ability to look on the bright side, and his fierce determination to make a difference for others,” the prime minister said.
“It was a profound honour for me to present Neale Daniher the Australian of the Year Award in 2025. I think it is safe to say that there has never been an award so unanimously agreed to by every single Australian on that night.”
Albanese said the difference Daniher made could be measured through the awareness he raised of the disease, and the tens of millions of dollars raised to help tackle it.
“Above all, it will be carried in the hearts of everyone who found new strength and yes, new hope in their fight, because of the extraordinary example that Neale set. May this wonderful Australian rest in peace.”