In a powerful testament to the unbreakable human spirit, AFL legend Neale Daniher has been named the 2025 Australian of the Year. Daniher’s tireless advocacy to find a cure for motor neurone disease (MND) has united the nation and sparked an outpouring of support for this critical cause. Despite facing his own battle with the debilitating condition, which he was diagnosed with in 2013, Daniher has remained a beacon of hope and determination.
A Journey from Sporting Hero to MND Champion
Neale Daniher’s journey has taken him from the heights of AFL stardom to becoming the face of the fight against MND. As a player, he represented Essendon with distinction, playing over 80 games between 1979 and 1990 in a career hampered by injuries. He then transitioned into coaching, leading the Melbourne Demons from 1998 to 2007.
However, it was his MND diagnosis in 2013 that set Daniher on a new path – one dedicated to finding a cure for this devastating disease. Defying the initial prognosis of just two years to live, he channeled his energy into establishing the FightMND charity. Over the past 12 years, FightMND has raised over $100 million for critical research, with initiatives like the Big Freeze becoming a beloved fixture on the AFL calendar.
“It’s obviously a great honour, which allows a terrific platform to promote and thank everyone across Australia that has supported our cause, because without them, I would never have been nominated.”
– Neale Daniher
Uniting Australia in the Fight
Daniher’s ability to rally support has been the driving force behind FightMND’s success. He has galvanized Australians from all walks of life to join the cause, building what he calls “an army of supporters” committed to defeating MND.
When Daniher began his campaign, MND research in Australia was limited. Now, thanks to the funds raised and awareness generated, Australia boasts a robust research community working tirelessly for a breakthrough. Daniher’s leadership has been instrumental in this transformation.
A Shining Example of Resilience
Throughout his own struggle with MND, Neale Daniher has displayed remarkable resilience and positivity. His wife Jan praised his strength, noting that his journey has inspired countless others facing adversity.
“Neale has been so strong and resilient through, obviously, going through a really tough time. It’s not just about us, it’s about all the people that have supported us along the way, because without them, we wouldn’t be here today.”
– Jan Daniher
A Fitting Honour for an Extraordinary Australian
Being named the 2025 Australian of the Year is a fitting tribute to Neale Daniher’s tireless work and indomitable spirit. National Australia Day Council chair John Foreman praised Daniher’s dedication to changing the lives of MND sufferers.
“Neale’s dedication to changing the outcomes for people diagnosed with motor neurone disease while dealing with his own health is truly inspirational. His efforts today are giving people hope for tomorrow.”
– John Foreman, National Australia Day Council Chair
As he stood on the stage in Canberra, trophy in hand, Daniher reflected on the extraordinary journey that led him there. From his humble beginnings in rural Australia to becoming a sporting icon and then the nation’s champion in the fight against MND, his story is one of courage, resilience, and the power of the human spirit.
In Neale Daniher, Australia has found a true hero – someone who has faced unimaginable adversity with grace and grit, and who has used his platform to make a real difference in the lives of others. His recognition as the 2025 Australian of the Year is not just a celebration of his achievements, but a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have when they dedicate themselves to a cause greater than themselves.
As Daniher continues his fight, with the support of a nation behind him, there is renewed hope that a cure for MND may soon be within reach. And when that day comes, it will be due in no small part to the tireless efforts of this remarkable Australian – a man who has shown us all the true meaning of courage, compassion, and unwavering determination in the face of incredible odds.
