Mr Perera was nominated for his ongoing work with the Sri Lankan community.

"I was shocked but excited to win," he said. "I believe volunteering for the community is something we should all do."

Acknowledging the award, he said he felt Brimbank Council was appreciating the hard work he put in.

"I also encourage other people to volunteer for their community; it helps make life more comfortable for others."

Mr Perera and his family migrated to Australia in 1990.

"We decided to come here because Australia is a peaceful country with better law and order and many more education opportunities for our children."

Since arriving in Australia, Mr Perera has spent much of his free time helping Brimbank's small Sri Lankan community.

For many years he organised a weekend language school, teaching young Sri Lankans their native tongue. "I'm now president of the school, but I enjoyed my time as the organiser," he said.

Following the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami, Mr Perera helped organise a fundraiser to support displaced residents in his former homeland.

A number of orphaned children are now receiving ongoing funding for their education.