Each year since 1979, the United Nations Association of Australia has acknowledged UN Day (24 October) by awarding Australia journalists and media organisations who have excelled in their promotion of human rights and social justice issues.

The UN Day Media Awards seek to promote understanding about humanitarian and social justice issues by recognising those in the Australian media whose contributions stimulate public awareness and understanding. The UN Day Media Awards are a key feature of the UNAA’s work to promote achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Each category addresses one or more of the Goals.

Awards will be presented this year at a dinner at the Novotel Melbourne on Collins.

Simon Balderstone, AM, Chair of the Australian Himalayan Foundation is this year's Special Guest Speaker.

Simon is a journalist, author, consultant, former Prime Ministerial adviser and member of the first Australian Everest Expedition in 1984.

In 2007, he was awarded an AM for service to environmental protection and Indigenous affairs, to the Olympic movement, and to the community through organisations providing health, education, cultural and development assistance services.

Simon will discuss the humanitarian work being done by the Foundation to build sustainable, cohesive communities in the Himalaya, and current issues facing the overseas development aid sector.

PLEASE NOTE: Tables are made up of 8 people. If you have more than 8 people, we will put the additional people on the table next to your's.