Johnathon Thurston wants 'national conversation' about date of Australia Day

Rugby league great, Johnathon Thurston, wants a national conversation about changing the date of Australia Day.

The Queensland nominee for Australian of the Year said white Australia has to appreciate and respect the hurt and suffering Aboriginals had endured.

While he doesn't have an alternative date in mind, Mr Thurston said it's time the nation had the debate.

"People need to be educated on why our culture doesn't feel inclusive on this date," he said at a lunch to celebrate all the finalists.

Mr Thurston is in line for the award, as much for his work mentoring Indigenous children, as for his record breaking feats in the field.

He'll face competition from academics, scientists, doctors and welfare advocates, as well as Gold Logie winner Samuel Johnson, who's raised millions of dollars to battle breast cancer.

Mr Johnson, who won the award for his portrayal of Molly Meldrum, lost his older sister Connie, last year.

The winners will be announced at a ceremony in Parliament House tonight, after a full day of functions in Canberra.