South Australians called on to put forward the extraordinary people in their communities
10 June 2026: Nominations for the 2027 Australian of the Year Awards are now open, with South Australians encouraged to nominate someone who deserves this recognition because they excel in their field, inspire those around them, and make a real impact on the lives of others, their community and society.
The call to nominate was launched this morning at the sold-out Australian of the Year Breakfast in Adelaide — a room that brought together some of Australia's most recognised changemakers, including 2026 Australian of the Year and astronaut Katherine Bennell-Pegg, 2023 Australian of the Year Taryn Brumfitt, and 2019 Australian of the Year Dr Richard Harris SC OAM.
CEO of the Australia Day Council of South Australia, Jan Chorley, said our state has a proud history with the Australian of the Year Awards and consistently produces recipients whose influence is felt well beyond our borders.
"Today's breakfast was a powerful reminder that these awards provide a tangible platform for extraordinary Australians to help shape our country.
"Our current Australian of the Year, Katherine Bennell-Pegg, has achieved so much and she is only halfway through. She is an astronaut rewriting what's possible for young women in STEM and she has changed the conversation about space - I can't wait to hear and see what she does over the next six months," Ms Chorley said.
The Awards seek out Australians whose challenges and triumphs, which often reach well beyond professional achievements, reflect a unique life journey that is notable and stirs pride and inspiration.
"South Australia has produced some of Australia's finest recipients. From science and space to mental health, film, and community leadership — their stories have inspired many. It is a reminder that there are remarkable people in every community and we need you to tell us who they are," Ms Chorley said.
Nominations are open across four categories: Australian of the Year, recognising role models in any field; Senior Australian of the Year, for those aged 65 and over who continue to contribute significantly; Young Australian of the Year, celebrating 16 to 30-year-olds driving change and inspiring others; and Australia's Local Hero, which acknowledges those making a difference at community level.
"The next Australian of the Year could be someone you admire from afar or a little closer to home — your neighbour, your colleague, a community leader who has never sought the spotlight," Ms Chorley said.
Nominations for the 2027 Australian of the Year Awards are now open. To be eligible, nominees must be Australian citizens aged 16 and over. Self-nominations are not accepted. A person needs only one nomination to be considered. For full eligibility criteria or to nominate visit australianoftheyear.org.au before midnight AEST, 31 July 2026.
"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," Ms Chorley said.
