Celebrating 20 Years of Nursing Excellence
Nine finalists for the 2026 HESTA Australian Nursing & Midwifery Awards have been announced, marking the 20th anniversary of the event celebrating excellence in the healthcare sector. This milestone year highlights the vital contributions of Australia’s healthcare professionals.
The awards honour achievements in three categories: Nurse of the Year, Midwife of the Year, and Outstanding Organisation. Finalists this year include a Victoria-based midwife who ensures Aboriginal families receive culturally safe support, a South Australian nurse improving outcomes for children facing adversity, and a NSW organisation offering an innovative therapy program.
HESTA CEO Debby Blakey commended the dedication of the finalists. She said, “Congratulations to all nine finalists. Each one of them represents the incredible heart and dedication of Australian nursing and midwifery at its best. Reaching our 20th year of these awards is a proud milestone for us.” Blakey also noted the awards as a moment to reflect on the remarkable passion and commitment seen in the sector year after year.
Recognising Excellence in Healthcare
The finalists were selected from over 170 nominations by industry experts across the health sector. Among them is Alison Weatherstone from the WA Country Health Service, noted for her leadership in midwifery, and Distinguished Professor Sandy Middleton from the Australian Catholic University, recognised for groundbreaking stroke research. Another finalist includes a team running a programme in New South Wales that provides therapy to individuals while offering clinical placements for students.
J.P. Morgan Australia and New Zealand, the main sponsor of the 2026 awards, is providing a $30,000 prize pool to be divided among the winners. Stephen Jani, Head of Markets and Securities Services Sales, and Nadia Schiavon, Head of Securities Services, congratulated the finalists. Jani stated, “Congratulations to the finalists in this year’s HESTA nursing and midwifery awards. You represent the heart of healthcare.” Schiavon added, “We are proud to recognise the commitment that you bring to patient care every day.”
The winners will be announced at a celebratory dinner in Melbourne on 14th May. This event will be a chance to honour the remarkable contributions of individuals and organisations in the healthcare industry. Blakey expressed excitement, saying, “We can’t wait to celebrate with them in Melbourne next month.”
These awards continue to highlight the passion and commitment seen in the sector year after year. The calibre of this year’s finalists is a testament to the impact nurses, midwives, and care organisations have on the health of Australian communities. The event will not only celebrate the winners but also reflect on two decades of dedication in nursing and midwifery.
