Congratulations to three incredible deaf change makers, meet our 2025 Deaf Australia Awards recipients.

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Kett Gault | Deaf Australian of the Year

Kett’s impact reaches far beyond Auslan education.
As a proud Papua New Guinean Deaf man of colour, he has travelled many times to Far North Queensland to support deaf people from diverse backgrounds and remote communitie. His work helps people develop Auslan, strengthen identity, and build connection.

Kett understands the challenges of language deprivation and isolation firsthand. He is also a passionate advocate for Deaf men’s mental health and for hearing fathers of Deaf children.

He created “camp-outs” where fathers can learn about Deaf culture, identity, and Auslan — helping families grow in understanding and connection.

Kett leads with compassion, authenticity, and cultural wisdom. He is a true example of Deaf excellence and inclusion.

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Erin Davis | Deaf Youth Australian of the Year

Erin Davis is recognised for her outstanding leadership and dedication to Deaf and hard of hearing youth across Australia. She is known for her strong passion, uplifting energy, and commitment to empowering young Deaf people both nationally and internationally.

Erin contributes widely across the community through her roles as a DYA Board member, secretary, and co-chair, as well as the DA CYBC Crossing Borders Camp coordinator. She is also actively involved with Deaf Youth Queensland and balances her advocacy with her own business and teaching work.

Her positive influence, hard work, and ongoing support for Deaf youth make her a truly deserving recipient of this year’s award.

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Cheryl Rankie | Deaf Community Volunteer of the Year

Cheryl has given more than 30 years of dedicated volunteer service as Secretary of the Deaf Seniors Group, formerly the Victorian Deaf Senior Citizens Club.Since 1995, she has been a steady, compassionate leader — organising and attending countless events that keep Deaf seniors socially active, connected, and supported.When the group struggled with low attendance and venue challenges, many would have walked away — but Cheryl stayed. She believed strongly that Deaf seniors deserve a welcoming space to connect and enjoy life, not isolation.Thanks to her persistence and leadership, the group has grown stronger than ever, with a great venue and regular attendance.Her commitment has ensured that the Deaf Seniors Group continues to thrive for future generations.

As we celebrate this year’s award recipients, we are reminded that strong contributions to the Deaf community matter now more than ever. With rapid changes in technology, education, and access, it is vital that Deaf voices continue to lead, shape, and advocate for a more inclusive future.

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The dedication shown by our winners reflects the power of community-led action. Strengthening culture, advancing language rights, and ensuring Deaf people of all ages are supported, represented, and connected. Their leadership inspires all of us to keep building a world where Deaf identity, pride, and accessibility are not just recognised, but championed.

Congratulations

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