Since Luke was killed by his father, Greg Anderson, at cricket training in February, Rosie has campaigned against domestic violence.
โWhen a grieving mother spoke out calmly just hours after her sonโs murder, she gave voice to many thousands of victims of domestic violence who had until then remained unheard,โ it said on the Australian of the Year website.
โRosieโs incredible strength and selfless efforts are an inspiration to many other victims of domestic violence and her courage and willingness to speak out will make Australia a far better place.โ
Victorian Police Chief Commissioner, Ken Lay, praised Rosie as the most โremarkable victimโ he has ever met and said she put domestic violence on the national agenda.
Paralympian Carole Cooke, artist and indigenous activist, Richard Frankland and peer support worker, David Cooper were the other finalists for the Victorian award.
Rosie will join those from around Australia as finalists in the national awards in Canberra on January 25.