CANBERRA, ACT – The 2026 ACT Women’s Awards have launched. They reveal a significant refresh in their approach. This update aims to recognize a wider range of contributions. It celebrates the lasting change women, gender-diverse, and non-binary people create. The awards now focus on impact across all fields. Nominations are open from March 1, 2026. They close on May 10, 2026.
A More Inclusive Recognition
The ACT Women’s Awards historically honored women. They recognized contributions improving women’s and girls’ lives. They also celebrated advances toward gender equality. However, the 2026 awards adopt a more contemporary and inclusive scope. They now recognize contributions from women, gender-diverse, and non-binary people. This includes those living in the ACT and surrounding regions. The awards acknowledge achievements making a difference locally, nationally, or globally. This shift reflects a broader understanding of impact. It ensures more people can be celebrated. People from all backgrounds are encouraged to nominate. Self-nominations are also welcomed.
New Categories Drive Impact Focus
Four new categories define the refreshed awards. These categories emphasize the nature and impact of contributions. They move away from previous age-based divisions. The Excellence in Industry Award is a key addition. It recognizes outstanding innovation and leadership. This award highlights economic participation. It celebrates advancements across any sector or industry. The Lifetime Achievement Award honors a sustained body of work. This work must have created meaningful, enduring change. It celebrates leaders who shaped policy and culture. Their legacies continue to inspire. Furthermore, the Gender Equity and Social Change Award celebrates advocacy. It recognizes reforms or initiatives advancing inclusion. This category aligns closely with the ACT Women’s Plan. It highlights efforts driving systemic change. Finally, the Minister’s Impact Award is a new discretionary award. The Minister selects this award annually. Its theme responds to emerging needs. This allows recognition of timely and crucial issues.
Aligning with the ACT Women’s Plan
Minister for Women, Dr. Marisa Paterson, launched the awards. She stated the awards reflect the ACT Women’s Plan values. The plan aims to achieve gender equity. It supports women and girls to thrive. The plan prioritizes health, safety, and inclusion. It also focuses on leadership and economic participation. The refreshed awards echo these priorities. They shine a light on local women making a huge difference. These individuals contribute across diverse areas. Their work creates real, lasting change. The awards champion a culture of recognition. They affirm the values the community wishes to uphold. People making a huge difference deserve this spotlight.
How to Nominate
Nominations are crucial for recognizing these efforts. They are open now until May 10, 2026. Interested individuals can submit nominations online. The process uses the SmartyGrants platform. Eligibility extends to women, gender-diverse, and non-binary people. Nominees must be at least 16 years old. Paid or unpaid work is eligible for nomination. Public servants may be nominated if their contributions exceed their official duties. Temporary residents, refugees, and people with disability are also eligible. The ACT Office for Women can assist with nominations. The awards ceremony will take place on September 3, 2026. Winners will be honored. They will also be recognized on the ACT Women’s Honour Roll. This digital list celebrates significant contributions. It documents achievements since ACT self-government began. People who are making a huge difference in their field are encouraged to be nominated. This initiative highlights important work. It celebrates those making a huge difference in Canberra and beyond. It is about recognizing all people making a huge difference. This news provides an opportunity to celebrate many achievements. It is about making a huge difference.
Celebrating Lasting Change
The 2026 ACT Women’s Awards represent a significant evolution. They broaden recognition. They embrace inclusivity. The focus on lasting change is paramount. These awards celebrate people making a huge difference. They acknowledge efforts shaping a more equitable future. Many individuals are making a huge difference. This refreshed approach ensures their impact is seen. It inspires future generations. It celebrates the full spectrum of contributions. This is important news about community recognition. It highlights people who are making a huge difference. Their work benefits us all. The awards are an important part of this. They celebrate the best of the ACT. They honor people making a huge difference.
