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Australian of the Year: Michael Long, AFL champion and community leader #AOTY2019

2,573 views · Published 20 December 2018 · 1:28 · Indexed 13 October 2026

Channel: ABC Australia · 2018 · News & Politics

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Darwin born, Michael Long, Australian Rules Football icon, advocates for reconciliation and fights against racism through the Michael Long Foundation supporting the ML Learning and Leadership centre and the Long Walk. 

Michael played 190 games for Essendon, including two premiership wins. Awarded the Norm Smith Medal in 1993, Essendon include Michael in their 25 greatest players ever.

In 1995, following an on-field taunt, Michael made a stand leading to the AFL adopting a racial abuse code. In 2004, Michael met with Former Prime Minister, John Howard to return Indigenous issues to the national agenda. Michael embarked on ‘The Long Walk’, trekking 650km from his Melbourne home to Parliament House in Canberra.

Michael established the Michael Long Learning and Leadership Centre using the power of football to give young Indigenous Territorians opportunities for the future.

Today, Michael works with the Essendon Football Club and The Long Walk Foundation to increase awareness of Indigenous culture and history. Through leadership and speaking out Michael is tenacious in bringing real reform.

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