South Australians Encouraged to Nominate
Nominations for the 2027 Australian of the Year Awards opened on 10th June 2026. South Australians are encouraged to nominate individuals who excel in their fields and inspire their communities.
The call for nominations began at the Australian of the Year Breakfast in Adelaide. Notable figures like astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg, the 2026 Australian of the Year, attended the event.
Jan Chorley, CEO of the Australia Day Council of South Australia, highlighted the state’s history of producing influential award recipients. She remarked, “Today’s breakfast was a powerful reminder that these awards provide a tangible platform for extraordinary Australians to help shape our country.”
Award Categories and Criteria
Nominations are sought in four categories: Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year, Young Australian of the Year, and Australia’s Local Hero. These categories recognise achievements across various fields and age groups.
Chorley emphasised the importance of recognising local heroes. She stated, “The next Australian of the Year could be someone you admire from afar or a little closer to home, like your neighbour or a community leader who has never sought the spotlight.”
Nominees must be Australian citizens aged 16 and over. Nominations will close at midnight AEST on 31st July 2026. A single nomination suffices for consideration, though self-nominations are not accepted.
The breakfast event was sold out and featured some of Australia’s most recognised changemakers. These included 2023 Australian of the Year Taryn Brumfitt and 2019 Australian of the Year Dr. Richard Harris SC OAM.
Chorley encouraged community involvement, noting, “A nomination takes minutes, but it can transform a life for that person and for everyone they serve. If someone in your world moves you, we want to hear about them. Please nominate today.”
The awards seek Australians whose challenges and triumphs reflect a unique life journey. These often reach well beyond professional achievements and stir pride and inspiration.
