The Victorian Senior of the Year Awards honoured outstanding contributions to community life at Government House on Wednesday, 22 October 2025.
Senior Achiever Award – Pradeep Kanthan
Pradeep Kanthan has shown how older adults can be powerful advocates for social change. Since 2003, he has served as Secretary of the Communities Council on Ethnic Issues (CCOEI), Eastern Region, contributing across governance, communications and community fundraising. He also organises the monthly Migrant Settlement Committee meetings, supporting multicultural communities across Victoria.
Pradeep’s dedication extends to digital inclusion, mentoring older Australians at Computer Pals for three years and supporting people with hearing loss through Hearing Matters Australia for six years. A veteran himself, he highlights the contributions of south-east Asian veterans through ANZAC Day presentations and writing.
“Pradeep’s tireless work uplifts communities and strengthens cohesion across all his volunteering roles,” COTA Victoria said.
Promotion of Multiculturalism Award – Dilnaz Billimoria
Dilnaz Billimoria has spent over 20 years empowering older Victorians from diverse backgrounds to feel heard, welcomed and celebrated. A proud Indian Australian of Persian background and Zoroastrian faith, Dilnaz uses her insights to break down barriers for culturally and linguistically diverse seniors.
A founding member of the Whitehorse Interfaith Network (WIN) and a former board member of CCOEI and Women’s Health East, Dilnaz brings together multifaith and multilingual leaders with grassroots communities for dialogue, inclusive events and culturally sensitive support. She mentors older women through leadership programs and assists seniors clubs with grant writing, report drafting and interpreter services.
“Dilnaz’s boundless energy and dedication have created lasting, practical change and strengthened community resilience,” COTA Victoria said.
Minister for Ageing Ingrid Stitt MP, Robert Caulfield, President of the Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria and Seniors Rights Victoria, joined Governor of Victoria Prof. Margaret Gardner AC to present the awards. The 2025 recipients were recognised for their generosity, advocacy and commitment, demonstrating how older Victorians can lead change, foster inclusion and live with purpose at every age.
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