Australian of the Year

Danny Schouten is the creator of Community Shark Bite Kits, bleeding-control stations that are now installed at hundreds of beaches across Australia.  

When a friend survived a shark attack only because a bystander quickly fashioned a makeshift tourniquet from a dog lead, Danny saw the critical need for on-site emergency equipment.  

Danny responded by designing Community Shark Bite Kits: specialised first-aid stations containing tourniquets, compression bandages, dressings, thermal blankets, amputated-part bags, gloves, a whistle and clear instructions for treating severe bleeding. When the majority of NSW beaches are unpatrolled and emergency services may experience delays reaching remote locations, Danny’s kits will save lives. 

Danny spends weekends assembling the kits, which have already proven their value, notably at a shark attack at Coogee Beach in June 2026. Community Shark Bite Kits have been installed at more than 330 beaches across Australia, and Danny’s vision is for every beach in Australia to be equipped with a kit.