Michael Foley OAM

Community volunteer and founder, Seniors Of Excellence NT

2025 NT Senior Australian of the Year

For more than 40 years, Michael Foley OAM has been contributing to the recognition of senior citizens in our communities and their mental wellbeing.  

Michael saw a need for seniors to be acknowledged for the hours of volunteer work they do every day. In 2014, he founded Seniors Of Excellence NT, inspiring senior citizens to share their valuable expertise and see the value of achievement that comes through community service.  

He went on to establish the Seniors Of Excellence NT Award to recognise their selfless work, with 183 seniors receiving the award since 2014. 

Michael has raised thousands of dollars and volunteered countless hours for community organisations such as Cancer Care NT, Variety and Royal Darwin Hospital Palliative Care Hospice. He’s also served on the board of directors of the National Heart Foundation Australia (Northern Territory). 

At 84 years of age, Michael continues to ensure the contributions of seniors are not forgotten.