Professor Larissa Behrendt honoured with top human rights award

The Australian Human Rights Commission has recognised the longtime advocate for her tireless work.

Distinguished Professor Larissa Behrendt has received the country's top human rights award. Source: Supplied

Eualeyai and Kamilaroi woman Larissa Behrendt AO has been awarded in the 2021 Australian Human Rights Awards.

The Distinguished Professor was honoured with the Human Rights Medal, one of just three awards recognising "advocates for a fairer and more equal Australia for all".

Professor Behrendt said the award was "very humbling".

"My work has always been a team effort and would not be possible without my colleagues... and all the communities who gave us the privilege of working with them."

Professor Behrendt is Director of Research at the Jumbunna Institute for Indigenous Education and Research at the University of Technology Sydney.

In giving the award, the Commission noted Professor Behrendt's long commitment working for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, in the fields of justice and the law, advocacy, and the visual and performing arts. 

In response to the continuing racism scandals at Collingwood Football Club, Professor Behrendt authored the "Do Better" report, making recommendations for the organisation to become a safer place for Blak players and fans. 

Her contribution to Indigenous education and research has been widely recognised.