In 2006, in recognition of his inspirational role as musician and mentor, Geoffrey was named Australian of the Year for the Australian Capital Territory, as part of the National Australia Day Awards. He also received the University of Tasmania Distinguished Alumni Award, for service to the community. He was appointed Honorary Professor of the University of Tasmania in 2007, and elected a Fellow of the Australian College of Educators (FACE). He is an Honorary Fellow of the Australian Academy of the Humanities.