The Excellence In Community Award celebrates Darren Hayes’ record-breaking success with Savage Garden and as a solo artist. It recognises Hayes beyond his commercial contributions, honouring a career-long dedication to community.
Through his public advocacy, candidly sharing his personal journey with mental health, resilience, and LGBTQIA+ representation, Darren has used his global platform to break stigmas and foster safer, more supportive spaces across the creative industries.
Darren’s deeply personal memoir ‘Unlovable’ opened crucial dialogues around surviving family violence and mental health struggles. His acclaimed solo album ‘Homosexual’ saw him celebrating queer joy and representation. Through. This and more, Hayes has consistently used his storytelling to champion inclusivity and vulnerability.
Throughout the Music In The House event, a stellar line-up of guest artists including Tania Doko, Electric Fields, Meg Mac, Michael Paynter, and Sister2Sister performed classic Darren Hayes and Savage Garden hits.
Image © Jess Macc
“I’m deeply honoured to be recognised by Support Act for my achievements beyond commercial success and chart statistics in the Australian music industry,” Darren said, accepting the award.
“I’m grateful to have been a voice advocating for an end to violence against women, homophobia, and racism, and I’m a passionate advocate for removing the stigma associated with mental health. Receiving any recognition from Support Act is an extreme honour. I hope that by highlighting my career, we can shine some of that spotlight on the much-needed funding crucial to the survival of this essential organisation.”
Savage Garden was also inducted into APRA AMCOS’ coveted 1,000,000,000 List, in recognition of their iconic 1997 smash hit ‘Truly Madly Deeply’ surpassing one billion streams across major services.
“Darren Hayes is not only one of the greatest songwriters and performers Australia has ever produced, but he is also a beacon of courage, openness, and empathy,” Support Act CEO Clive Miller says. “His bravery in speaking out about mental health, trauma, and identity has paved the way for healthier, more compassionate conversations across the music community. We are thrilled to present him with this year’s Excellence in Community Award.”
