Nominations for the 2027 Australian of the Year Awards close 31 July 2026
Australians are encouraged to nominate people in their communities who are making a real difference, with nominations for the 2027 Australian of the Year Awards closing on 31 July 2026.
Across the country, extraordinary Australians are contributing to their communities in ways both big and small. Some are well known, while many are quietly changing lives every day. The National Australia Day Council is calling on Australians to shine a light on these stories by submitting a nomination.
The Awards rely entirely on public nominations, and it only takes one nomination for someone to be considered. Nominating is simple: explain who the person is, what they have done and why their contribution matters.
“Every year these Awards begin with someone taking the time to recognise another person’s contribution. A nomination can shine a light on extraordinary Australians whose work is improving lives, strengthening communities and helping shape the nation,” said Todd Ashurst, Interim CEO, National Australia Day Council.
One nomination can:
• Raise the profile of important work
• Recognise the contribution of an individual
• Open the door to further recognition
Importantly, nominators do not need to know the person they put forward personally. Many nominees are people Australians have seen, heard about, or been inspired by through their work, leadership or service. Nominators can also choose to remain anonymous.
AWARD CATEGORIES
The Australian of the Year Awards recognise outstanding Australians across four categories:
• Australian of the Year
• Senior Australian of the Year (65 years and over)
• Young Australian of the Year (16–30 years)
• Australia’s Local Hero
Each state and territory selection panel chooses four recipients, one in each award category. Those 32 recipients then represent their state or territory at the national awards announcement in Canberra on 25 January 2027.
HOW TO NOMINATE & DEADLINE
Nominations can be submitted online at australianoftheyear.org.au.
Nominations close at midnight AEST on Friday, 31 July 2026.
