Nominations open for 2026 Australia Day Awards

Published on 10 September 2025

Every community has its quiet achievers - the people and groups who give their time, energy, and heart to make life better for others. Now is your chance to recognise them.

Armidale Regional Council is calling for nominations for the 2026 Australia Day Awards, celebrating the outstanding contributions of individuals and organisations across our region.

From tireless volunteers and inspiring young leaders to community groups making a real difference, the awards honour excellence in areas such as education, health, sport, the arts, the environment, and community service.

Award categories include:

Citizen of the Year; Senior Citizen/Elder of the Year; Young Citizen of the Year; Community Service Award; Art, Drama or Music Award; Environmental Citizen of the Year; Sports Person of the Year; Community Group/Event of the Year.

Mayor Sam Coupland said the awards were a fabulous way to recognise those people who go above and beyond for the community.

“These awards are about celebrating the people who make our region stronger, more vibrant, and more connected,” he said. “If you know someone who deserves recognition, now’s the time to nominate them.”

Nominations for both Armidale and Guyra are now open.