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William Tilmouth

For his lifetime dedication to advancing self-determination, social justice and opportunity for First Peoples.

Award nominee 23 January 2026

About this winner

  • Year: 2025
  • Level: Winner
  • Award category: Human Rights Medal

About the 2025 nomination

William is an Arrernte man from Mparntwe (Alice Springs) and a member of the Stolen Generations. Taken from his family to Croker Island Mission as a child, William has dedicated his life to advancing justice, opportunity and self-determination for First Peoples.

He served as Executive Director of Tangentyere Council for over 2 decades, was Central Australian ATSIC Regional Chair and has led numerous community organisations. Since 2011, he has been the founding Chair of Children’s Ground, First Peoples-led reform movement.

In 2023, William was honoured as NAIDOC Male Elder of the Year.

About the Human Rights Awards

The Australian Human Rights Awards is an inspirational showcase of the best in all of us. The Awards honour and celebrate diverse human rights heroes and significant achievements in protecting and promoting human rights in Australia.

Learn more about the Human Rights Awards.

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