Pictured: 2025 Australian of the Year Awards by Salty Dingo
With the last few days of the month quickly ticking down, Australians are encouraged to submit nominations for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards ahead of the deadline at midnight AEST on Thursday, July 31st. This is a fantastic opportunity for citizens across the nation to recognise and highlight the commendable efforts and achievements of their fellow Aussies.
Mark Fraser, the CEO of the National Australia Day Council, shared, “Every person recognised by the Australian of the Year Awards program starts with someone taking a few minutes to nominate them, to say ‘I see you and what you do matters’.”
“These awards don’t just recognise high profile figures, they highlight a wide and diverse range of extraordinary people – volunteers, scientists, carers, artists and people who create real and lasting change,” he said.
The Australian of the Year Awards catalogue excellence through four categories, including Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year (for those aged 65 years plus), Young Australian of the Year (for individuals aged 16-30), and Australia’s Local Hero.
These categories cover a wide range of achievements and contributions towards Australian society, recognising individuals who strive for excellence but also inspire and build community spirit and resilience. Nominating someone for these esteemed awards is straightforward through their official website.
The awards are a national celebration of remarkable individuals who have made significant, positive impacts on the community and the nation. These accolades are presented in a major public event on Australia Day each year, where these individuals will be recognised for their efforts.
These awards serve multiple roles that not only honour individual achievements but also promote influential role models for the citizenry. The diversity of categories makes sure of broad recognition of contributions from various sectors, including the arts, science, and community service, among others.
As the nomination window closes soon, this is the final call for Australians to bring forward names of those in their communities who truly make a difference. It is a chance to make sure that the efforts of the nation’s most inspiring individuals are recognised and celebrated.
For more information and to submit before the July 31st deadline, click here.
