Student awarded SA Young Australian of the Year

Amber Brock-Fabel, University of Adelaide’s Bachelor of Arts (Advanced) student majoring in Psychology and Criminology, has been awarded 2025 Young Australian of the Year for South Australia.

The 20-year-old is an advocate for youth and environmental issues as the Founder of the South Australian Youth Forum (SAYF) which is dedicated to bridging the gap between youth and decision-makers.

“Receiving the Young Australian of the Year for South Australia is an incredible honour and a moment I’ll always cherish,” she said.

“It’s a privilege to be recognised among such talented, driven, and inspirational individuals who are making a real impact. I feel energised and excited to keep working alongside these remarkable people as we tackle important issues and build a better future together.

“I’m beyond ready to use this platform to continue inspiring and empowering young people across our state, as well as to amplify and grow the South Australian Youth Forum, creating spaces for young voices to be heard and valued.”

In 2021 at just 17 years old she founded SAYF which empowers those aged 14 to 18 to discuss critical issues such as climate change, period poverty, gender equality and youth loneliness.

The insights gathered – including surveys and models of engagement – are then presented to lawmakers and relevant organisations.

Under Amber’s leadership, SAYF has secured partnerships and collaborations with various organisations, gaining both national and international recognition.

SAYF was recently represented at the United Nations Summit of the Future, the National Inquiry into Civics Education and the Australian Conference on Youth Health.

Amber said that her experience at the University of Adelaide has been a key motivator in her advocacy.

“Receiving the Young Australian of the Year for South Australia is an incredible honour and a moment I’ll always cherish. It’s a privilege to be recognised among such talented, driven, and inspirational individuals who are making a real impact.Amber Brock-Fabel, Bachelor of Arts (Advanced) student, the University of Adelaide

“My studies in psychology and criminology have been incredibly eye-opening, giving me deeper insights into systemic and societal barriers to change, as well as exposing me to important research that enhances our understanding of human behaviour and society,” she said.

“I’m excited to continue learning and applying this knowledge to make a meaningful impact in my work with young people across the state and through the South Australian Youth Forum.”

The youth-led SAYF won the Connecting Communities Award at the Young Achiever of the Year Gala in 2024, the Premiers Recognition of Outstanding Volunteer Service in 2023 and 2024, and Community Changemaker Recognition from Volunteering SA/NT in 2023.

Amber herself has been recognised as a two-time finalist for the Young Achiever of the Year Awards, and has received the Governor of South Australia’s Commendation Excellence Award in 2023, the Young Entrepreneur of the Year in 2023, and the Governor General’s Student Citizenship Award with Distinction in 2022.

“I am incredibly grateful for these acknowledgments and for the support that has enabled me to continue making an impact,” she said.

“Every recognition and achievement have only strengthened my commitment to supporting young people and creating positive change.”

Find out more about the 2025 Australian of the Year Awards.