Neil Mitchell says it’s time to consider scrapping Australian Of The Year

Neil Mitchell says it’s time revamp the Australian Of The Year award, or scrap it all together.

The 3AW Mornings host said the award had become ‘too political’ and divisive.

Recent winners Adam Goodes and Rosie Batty have used the gong as a platform to speak about social issues, with 2016 winner David Morrison already courting controversy just days after receiving the honour.

Catherine McGregor, who was also in the running for this year’s gong, hit out at Mr Morrison’s selection – branding it ‘weak and conventional.’

She has since apologised.

‘I think it needs to be re-defined, re-designed, or abolished,’ Neil Mitchell said on 3AW.

‘The comments from Catherine McGregor attacking the selection as ‘weak and conventional’ ? although she’s apologised since – just indicates that it’s being seen as a platform for preaching.

‘I think it should be a person there as a symbol of admiration and respect.’

It appears Neil Mitchell isn’t alone in his thinking, with Australian-raised NBA star Andrew Bogut also sharing Neil’s view.

I think the time has come to abolish the #AOTY (Australian of the Year) award. #PoliticallyHijacked

? Andrew Bogut (@andrewbogut) January 27, 2016

Click PLAY below to hear Neil Mitchell’s comments.