Nominations are open for the 2026 Northern Territory (NT) Education and Care Awards.
The awards recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements of early childhood and outside school hours educators and services who deliver quality learning opportunities, are innovative in their approach and demonstrate exceptional commitment to achieving quality outcomes for NT children and their families.
The Department of Education and Training values the contribution of early childhood professionals in giving children the strongest possible start in life.
Delivered in partnership by the NT Government, Child Australia and Early Childhood Australia, the awards shine a spotlight on the vital work of early childhood and outside school hours care professionals, whose contributions have lifelong impact for children.
Department of Education and Training Chief Executive Susan Bowden encouraged Territorians to nominate an educator, service or program making a real difference in their community.
"Early childhood educators and services play a vital role in giving Territory children the best possible start in life," she said.
"These awards recognise the dedication, professionalism and positive impact of those supporting children and families across the NT."
Award categories include Outstanding Educator, Outstanding Aboriginal Educator, Outstanding Early Childhood Teacher, Outstanding Leader and Outstanding Education and Care Program.
The 2026 Outstanding Education and Care Program category theme is 'Nurturing a child-safe culture in early childhood education and care.'
Nominations can be submitted at educationandcareawards.nt.gov.au here.
Nominations close on 12 June 2026, with winners to be announced on 16 October 2026.
