Time is running out to nominate for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards.
Organisers are urging people across the country to nominate those whose actions, leadership or impact deserve recognition.
Nominations will close at midnight tonight (July 31). This is the final opportunity to help bring the stories of remarkable individuals into the spotlight.
“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,'” said Mark Fraser, CEO National Australian Day Council.
“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.”
The awards recognise excellence in four categories: Australian of the Year; Senior Australian of the Year (65 years plus); Young Australian of the Year (16-30) and Australia’s Local Hero.
Meanwhile, Federal Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey also encouraged community groups to consider applying for National Australia Day Council funding for an Australia Day event.
Each year, the National Australia Day Council offers grants for community groups, government entities and councils to support Australia Day events and encourage community participation. The Australia Day Community Events Grant Program offers grants of $2000 or $10,000 for events that help communities reflect, respect and celebrate on Australia Day.
Applicants for the $10,000 grant can apply for an additional $5000 if their event includes significant First Nations elements.
The grant program will open on August 13.
