Australian of the Year

Kaitlyn Farquhar is a youth advocate and community leader. At age 19, Kaitlyn founded Dreamscape, an inclusive tutoring initiative that has supported more than 200 differently‑abled students, many of whom have progressed to university.  

As a board member and communications officer for the National Council of Women Australia, she contributes to national governance and helps amplify advocacy for women and gender equality. 

Through her leadership roles and projects with organisations such as Bravehearts, Just Governance, Youth Decide, Sydney Alliance and What Were You Wearing?, Kaitlyn works to strengthen the voices of young people and communities facing vulnerability or exclusion.  

She convenes youth roundtables and advocacy initiatives across more than four states, bringing young people together to share their experiences, engage with decision-makers and shape responses to issues affecting their communities.  

Her work spans child safety, gender-based violence, inclusive governance and youth participation, turning community insight into meaningful advocacy and change.