Father figures play an important role in empowering the young people in our community.
More than DNA: we celebrate everyday father figures who shape our communities.
A father figure can be a:
- Relative (father, uncle, brother),
- Role model (coach, mentor, teacher) or
- Community leader (advocate, organiser).
The Victorian Father of the Year award is about recognising the everyday father figures who have a profound and positive effect on young people and their community.
What it means to be Victorian Father of the Year
Victorian Father of the Year winners Steve Moneghetti (2006) and Ben Smith (2024) discuss what it means to be a Victorian Father of the Year.
Ben Smith is the 2024 Victorian Father of the Year
Devoted Dad and CEO of the Mornington Community Support Centre Ben Smith was awarded the 2024 Victorian Father of the Year honour at a special ceremony at Melbourne Town Hall today.
Mornington local Ben Smith was honoured for his community advocacy and deep love for his family. He shared his motto: “We’re not built to live alone.”
Every day Ben's team hosts meals and support for those in need. The team strives to understand each person’s challenges and support them towards finding stability and long-term solutions.
About the Victorian Father of the Year award
Since 1956, the Victorian Father of the Year award has recognised Victorian dads and father figures who make positive contributions to their communities.
Victorian Mother of the Year
The Y also celebrates the Victorian Mother of the Year award.
The award highlights the importance of mothers and mother-figures who inspire and empower those around them.
Check out the highlights from the 2025 Victorian Mother of the Year award.