A pioneer in the use of stem cell technology, Professor Alan Mackay-Sim led the world's first clinical trial using these cells to treat spinal cord injuries.
It's this research that has helped him become the 2017 Australian of the Year.
In a ceremony at Parliament House, the biomedical scientist was handed the Australian of the Year trophy by Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.
Professor Mackay-Sim says he wants to use the opportunity to highlight the value of medical research.
He has also emphasised the importance of investing in young people involved in science.
"I'm hoping 2017 will be a wonderful opportunity to talk about the importance of research on spinal cord and rare brain diseases. About the therapeutic futures of stem cells and cell transplantation, which were undreamed of 20 years ago. About how we must, as Australians, prioritise our spending so that we can afford not only to look after the disabled and the deceased -- diseased in our community but to look at future radical treatments that will reduce future health costs. As a nation, we must be part of this and we must invest in young scientists and give them great careers."
Australia's 2017 Local Hero is Vicki Jellie, from Warrnambool in Victoria, who spearheaded a fundraising campaign in the wake of her husband's death from cancer.
Deciding to fulfil his wishes to bring radiotherapy services to the South West of Victoria, Vicki began "Peter's Project", lobbying governments and the community and raising around $30 million.
In 2016 her dream was realised, with the opening of the South West Regional Cancer Centre.
She has encouraged others to help their communities in whatever ways they can.
"Community is much more than just belonging to something - it's about doing something together that make belonging matter. Be part of something greater than yourself. We can all make a difference, no matter how small or large it is. No matter where we live in this great country, in a tiny country town or in a city, don't be afraid to step forward and talk about what you believe in and what your dream is. Lead by example, with optimism and courage and implement something new."
Sister Anne Gardiner's lifetime of work looking after the communities of the Tiwi Islands in the Northern Territory has earned her the 2017 Senior Australian of the Year award.
The 85-year-old has spent more than six decades living among the Tiwi people, and working to preserve their way of life.
Accepting the award on behalf of the Tiwi people, and those who have looked after them, she called for greater acceptance and acknowledgement of all Australian peoples.
"It is of paramount importance that those responsible for policy development consult with the relevant persons and groups among our First People, so that policies may recognise and appropriately include their language and cultures, particularly in areas such as leadership, education and employment. I invite all Australians to support people such as the Tiwi to be visible as Australians to all Australians. I pray that all people in our wonderful country, Australia, regardless of language, culture, skin colour or religious belief, may stand tall as proud Australians."
For 2017 Young Australian of the Year, South Australian Paul Vasileff, it was a determination to prove he could achieve global success without leaving Australia that has seen him succeed.
Having been interested in fashion from a young age, Paul graduated from a Milan fashion academy before starting his own label in Adelaide.
He says he hopes to see other local businesses and entrepreneurs follow in his footsteps.
"I'm proud today that we're able to nurture and uphold these skills locally and provide Australians with jobs and give them a chance to live out their dreams, too. Australia's future is dependent on innovation and people to follow their dreams and skills. I've been lucky enough to be given the opportunity to live out my dream, and my hope for Australia is that our young people can have the same opportunity and our local businesses are supported and given the chance to grow."
The Chairman of the National Australia Day Council, Ben Roberts-Smith, has praised the contributions of all the 2017 Australian of the Year Award recipients, and says they provide hope and inspiration to other Australians.
