Communities such as Temora are being reminded that nominations for the 2027 Australian of the Year Awards close 31 July and are being encouraged to nominate people from the community. The National Australia Day Council (NADC) has said that 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 and the NADC 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 and open the door to further recognition. There are four categories available • 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 It is important to note that 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. 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. Nominations can be submitted online at australianoftheyear.org.au.
