Premier congratulates Ash Barty named as 2020 Young Australian of the Year

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has congratulated Queenslander Ash Barty on being named 2020 Young Australian of the Year.

“I’m delighted Ash has been recognised as 2020 Young Australian of the Year and a role model for Queenslanders and Australians of all ages,” the Premier said.

“From Ipswich to becoming the world’s number 1 player, at just 23 years old, Ash has already established herself as one of our country’s most talented and inspirational sportspeople.”

Professional tennis player Ash Barty inspires legions of fans with her dynamic tennis game and down-to-earth attitude. The former cricketer and youth tennis champion is ranked the world’s number one singles tennis player by the Women's Tennis Association, and is in the top 20 of doubles players.

“As the National Indigenous Tennis Ambassador for Tennis Australia, Ash has also encouraged more Indigenous youth to participate in the sport and pursue an active and healthy lifestyle,” the Premier said.

“And as the 2020 Young Australian of the Year, she will continue to be an inspiration to all young people and a great example that with hard work and determination, you can achieve your dreams and do it with humble and gracious spirit.

“On behalf of all Queenslanders I congratulate Ash on this prestigious honour and on establishing a lasting legacy as one of our State’s finest.”

The Premier also commended Queensland’s Australians of the Year for 2020 – Queensland Australian of the Year Rachel Downie, Queensland Senior Australian of the Year Peter Dornan AM and Queensland Local Hero Adjunct Assistant Professor Nick Marshall.

For more information about the awards visit www.australianoftheyear.org.au

ENDS

Media Contact: 

Premier's office - Zoe Russell - 0439 982 347