From volunteers and mentors to event organisers and quiet achievers, our community is full of people who make a difference. Now is a chance to celebrate and recognise those who go above and beyond for the betterment of Ballarat.
The 2026 Ballarat Australia Day Community Awards celebrate individuals and groups who contribute their time, skills and energy to improving the lives of others, strengthening community connections and inspiring civic pride.
City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves said it's important to give public acknowledgement to those individuals and groups who exemplify leadership and passion to improve our communities, validating their effort and commitment.
"Every community has people who quietly give their time and talents to make life better for others," she said.
"These awards are our chance to shine a light on those contributions, say thank you, and celebrate the spirit that makes our community so special."
"I strongly encourage you to make a nomination. Whether your friend, neighbour, colleague, we all know someone worthy of being recognised with an Australia Day Community Award."
The annual awards have three categories:
Ballarat Citizen of the Year
The Citizen of the Year is someone who has made an outstanding contribution to our community and region. It could be over a lifetime or because of a specific event or need. They could have covered a range of activities and interests including areas such as education, health, fundraising, charitable and voluntary services, business, sport, arts, the environment, or any other area that contributes to the advancement and wellbeing of our community.
Ballarat Young Citizen of the Year
The Young Citizen of the Year is a young emerging leader who is making a real difference in their community. They may be committed to bringing positive change, to bringing political and social change and moving towards becoming a local, state, or national leader of the future. Support them on their journey by recognising and rewarding their efforts. The nominated young citizen must be 25 years of age or less on 26 January 2026.
Community Event of the Year
The City of Ballarat would like to hear about events over the past year that have contributed to making Ballarat a great place to live. The Community Event of the Year Award is presented to the group or person who has staged the most outstanding community activity, either small or large, between 30 October 2024 to 30 September 2025.
Nominations for the awards will close on Friday 31 October 2025.
The Awards will be presented at an official presentation on 22 January 2026.
The Ballarat Australia Day Community Awards are provided by the National Australia Day Council (NADC) and are administered by local Councils throughout Australia.
2025 winners were Allanah Crameri (Citizen of the Year), Noah Quick (Young Citizen of the Year) and Ballarat Christmas Carols (Community Event of the Year).
