Driven by a community, fairness and concern for others, Angela Fredericks was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for service to the community through refugee support.

Reflecting on her recognition, she says “everyone deserves to live in safety, free from fear and persecution, no matter where they come from".

“I also believe that with privilege comes responsibility – and if you’ve been given certain advantages in life, it’s your duty to use them to stand up for those who haven’t had the same opportunities.”

A local of Biloela in Queensland, Angela co-founded the #HometoBilo campaign, advocating for the Nadesalingam family to be allowed to stay in Australia.

Nades and Priya Nadesalingam fled Sri Lanka in the early 2010s to escape persecution. They settled in Biloela and started a family.

After their bridging visas expired, the family was moved to Melbourne in 2018 before being moved to Christmas Island in 2019, when legal challenges began to keep them in the country.

“I’m driven by a deep belief in justice, fairness, and the strength of community. When Priya, Nades, and their daughters were taken, it wasn’t just a news story – it was personal.”

After four years of legal battles and advocacy, the campaign garnered national attention. In 2022, the Nadesalingams were granted permanent protection and returned to Biloela.  

Angela remains an advocate for asylum seekers, and is a mental health social worker in her community. She was formerly a mental health clinician at CQ Mental Health, and a domestic violence support worker at the Banana Shire Support Centre.  

Angela says she was deeply motivated from the very beginning of the campaign.

“They were part of our town and part of our lives ... the outpouring of love and support from both our local community and the wider Australian public inspired me,” she said.  

Angela explains that she never expected any kind of recognition for her work.  

“... but to know that our collective efforts are being acknowledged means a great deal,” she says.  

“The recognition shines a light on the importance of refugee rights and proves that ordinary people can lead powerful movements. I hope it inspires others to speak up, get involved and realise their voice matters too.

“For me personally, it strengthens my commitment to keep advocating ... whether in the areas of refugee policy, healthcare, domestic violence or mental health.”