Sydney Awards 2025 Nominees Shine Spotlight on Unsung Heroes
A renters’ rights advocate, a hip-hop visionary, and a marine ecologist are among the first nominees announced for the Sydney Awards 2025, a program by the Committee for Sydney that celebrates the city’s “unsung heroes.” These individuals are being recognized for creating meaningful change across communities—quietly, consistently, and without fanfare.
Landmark Win for NSW Renters
Tenants’ Union NSW CEO Leo Patterson Ross has achieved a major win for renters across the state. New legislation officially came into effect last month, protecting tenants from no-grounds evictions and providing more rights for pet owners. This policy shift is the result of years of relentless advocacy led by Patterson Ross and his team.
Rewriting the Rules on Rental Justice
Behind both parliamentary doors and TV interviews, the Tenants’ Union has lobbied for reforms to make rental housing fairer and more dignified. These changes are especially relevant as more families, seniors, and professionals are renting for longer terms than ever before.
“We’ve been trying to show governments and the broader community for a long time, that renters really needed to be given this level of fairness and dignity in their homes,” said Patterson Ross.
A Shift in Political and Social Awareness
The rental landscape has changed dramatically over the past few decades. With a rising number of Australians living in rental properties long-term, the system needed an overhaul. Patterson Ross believes these reforms reflect a political shift, as even politicians, journalists, and staffers now understand the realities of renting firsthand.
L-FRESH the LION: Music Meets Movement
Alongside him on the nominee list is Sukhdeep Singh Bhogal, known to many as L-FRESH the LION, a rapper and activist from Campbelltown in Western Sydney. His influence goes beyond music—he’s a community builder and mentor for the next generation of hip-hop artists.
Empowering Voices in Western Sydney
Through the Campbelltown Arts Centre’s “Conscious” program, now in its sixth year, L-FRESH supports emerging talents to build sustainable music careers. His work empowers young creatives to navigate today’s complex music industry landscape with purpose and passion.
Living Seawalls and the Ecology of Hope
Another nominee making quiet waves is Professor Melanie Bishop, a coastal ecologist from Macquarie University. As the lead for the Living Seawalls project, she pioneers environmental initiatives that combine science, sustainability, and community awareness.
Recognition for Transformative Impact
These nominees reflect the true spirit of the Sydney Awards—recognising those who bring about lasting change without seeking applause. They’re building better futures for renters, artists, and ecosystems, proving that even the most profound impacts can begin quietly.
