Andrew O’Keefe recognised in Australia Day awards for campaign against domestic violence

TV personality Andrew O’Keefe given an Australia Medal for his domestic violence campaign work, but says his work is only just beginning.

White Ribbon day Ambassador Andrew O'Keefe has been recognised in the Australia Day Awards. Picture: John Appleyard

IF Andrew O’Keefe’s dad Barry was alive today, he’d allow his son a moment to celebrate receiving an Australia Medal before suggesting he get back to work.

The television personality and anti-domestic violence advocate has been recognised for his service to the community and broadcast industry in this year’s Australia Day Honours.

In particular, his work with the White Ribbon campaign — which he helped found almost 14 years ago — has been acknowledged.

O’Keefe is an ambassador for White Ribbon which aims to eradicate domestic violence.

“I feel a bit bashful about accepting such a wonderful honour when I’m surrounded by many others of far greater impact, importance and intellect than myself,” O’Keefe, who hosts The Chase Australia and Weekend Sunrise, said.

“Nonetheless, I graciously accept and in doing so hope it highlights the incredible work of so many women and men in this space.”

His late father, an accomplished lawyer and Supreme Court judge, received an AM himself for his work with countless community groups.

He would be “immensely proud” today, O’Keefe said.

O’Keefe’s father — Barry O’Keefe — was a lawyer and former judge of the NSW Supreme Court. Big shoes for Andrew to fill, but he’s well on the way. Picture: Library Nwn

“He’d feel it was a fitting recognition of a job well done — so far,” he said.

“But he’d remind me it wasn’t an excuse to sit back and take it easy because there’s always more work to do, and so there is.”

When he was asked to be part of a new domestic violence campaign, O’Keefe had no idea how widespread the problem was.

“I assumed Australia was fortunate in that regard, that violence against women wasn’t a big problem,” he recalled.

Former Australian of the Year Rosie Batty kicks off White Ribbon week with O’Keefe (right). Picture: Blacktown City Council

“When I discovered just how many women and children are affected, it was a matter of needing to do something.”

White Ribbon Day and its other initiatives have made a significant contribution in raising community awareness and lobbying policymakers, he said. Being involved has also changed him.

“Meeting so many women and kids who’ve experienced and survived violence, either intact or deeply damaged, has had a profound impact on me.

“It’s one thing to know the statistics but it’s another to see first-hand the aftermath. But also, I’ve seen such extraordinary courage and resilience.”

O'Keefe however, has previously been better known for his work on Australian television. Picture: Chris Pavlich

While he’s chuffed to share the honour of an AM with his beloved old man, O’Keefe said he’s got a lot of work to do match Barry’s list of achievements.

“He rarely said no to a well-intentioned or deserving request. His life was a massive act of service to others. He used to say that to whom much is given, much is expected.

“For him, service was a human duty and I feel the same way.

“Compared to him, my achievements feel meagre but then he had 80 years and I’ve only had 45. There’s a bit of time to catch up, with any luck.”