Central Coast champion Layne Paull has joined the ranks of 31 remarkable women and girls to be named a finalist for the 2026 NSW Women of the Year Awards.
The North Avoca resident is nominated in the NSW Young Woman of the Year category.
The NSW Women of the Year Awards recognise outstanding women who demonstrate strong leadership, resilience and community spirit.
Ms Paull is a young leader with a passion for inclusion, innovation and community service.
As Inclusion Nippers Coordinator for North Avoca Surf Life Saving Club and Team Leader for Disabled Surfers Association, she has developed programs that make aquatic environments welcoming for people of all abilities.
Ms Paull juggles studying biomedical engineering at the University of Technology Sydney with her role as a disability support worker, designing personalised strategies to enhance clients' skills and independence.
She was awarded the Women in Engineering Scholarship 2025 by Engineers Australia.
Now in its 14th year, the awards program shines a light on extraordinary individuals across the state who are improving lives, driving innovation, strengthening communities and inspiring future generations.
Recipients in each of the five award categories will be revealed at the Women of the Year Awards ceremony on Thursday 5 March at the International Convention Centre, Sydney.
This is the flagship event of NSW Women's Week 2026, held from Monday 2 March to International Women's Day on Sunday 8 March.
The 2026 Women of the Year Awards finalists are:
NSW Premier's Woman of Excellence
- Professor Tracey O'Brien AM - Lane Cove LGA
- Clare Pearson - The Hills Shire LGA
NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year
- Dr Aunty Rhonda Radley - Port Macquarie-Hastings LGA
- Adjunct Professor Nicole Turner - Port Stephens LGA
- Sharon Winsor - Mid‑Western Regional LGA
NSW Community Hero
- Carolyn Campbell-McLean - Parramatta LGA
- Ruby Riethmuller - Northern Beaches LGA
- Gidget Foundation Australia Founders Group:
- Alexandra Berthold - Ku-ring-gai LGA
- Libby Bowditch - Northern Beaches LGA
- Jacqui Cotton - Northern Beaches LGA
- Stephanie Hughes - Waverley LGA
- Lou Hunter - North Sydney LGA
- Kim Mouret - Northern Beaches LGA
- Simone Short - Mosman LGA
NSW Regional Woman of the Year
- Jo Marshall - Upper Lachlan Shire LGA
- Amy Riddle - Coffs Harbour City LGA
- Jenny Worrell - Clarence Valley LGA
NSW Young Woman of the Year (16-30 years)
- Miranda McGufficke - Snowy Monaro Regional LGA
- Layne Paull - Central Coast LGA
- Milli Weaver - Randwick City LGA
- Dr Mithila Zaheen - Cumberland LGA
The Ones to Watch (7-15 years)
- Imali Bamji - Hunters Hill LGA
- Piper Clarke - Shoalhaven LGA
- Hafsa Faizan - Liverpool LGA
- Emma Hoskins - Blacktown LGA
- Amalia Carolyn Howard - Dubbo LGA
- Elly Ings - Northern Beaches LGA
- Hannah Orr - Goulburn Mulwaree LGA
- Ruvi Pooliyadde - Blacktown LGA
- Shanvi Govinda Raju - Penrith LGA
- Ivy Walker - Hornsby LGA
Learn more about the NSW Women of the Year Awards 2026 and finalists by visiting https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/women-nsw/awards-and-events/nsw-women-of-year-awards/nsw-women-of-year-awards-2026-finalists
Find out what other events are taking place during NSW Women's Week 2026 at NSW Women's Week 2026 | NSW Government. The NSW Women of the Year Awards ceremony will be livestreamed for everyone to celebrate these inspirational women and girls.
Premier Chris Minns said:
"Every finalist represents the strength and diversity that defines New South Wales.
"These women are changing the lives of those around them - not for recognition, but because they believe in lifting up their communities.
"I congratulate all of the finalists and commend them for going above and beyond in their respective fields."
Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said:
"Layne's tireless efforts in disability inclusion, innovation and community service are inspirational, and she is a more than worthy NSW Young Woman of the Year finalist.
"I join all Coasties in congratulating Layne.
"I would also like to acknowledge Professor Tracey O'Brien, a finalist for the NSW Premier's Woman of Excellence and NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year finalists Adjunct Professor Nicole Turner, Dr Aunty Rhonda Radley and Sharon Winsor, all of who I have the privilege of working with in my other Ministerial portfolios.
"The calibre of women nominated for the NSW Women of the Year Awards couldn't be higher and I congratulate each and every one of them."
Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:
"Women and girls across New South Wales are making a difference right across our state and these awards recognise their invaluable contributions.
"This year we receive an incredible number of nominations, every one of them showcasing a story of grit, compassion and remarkable achievement.
"Our 2026 finalists come from all corners of New South Wales and their work spans health, community services, business, culture, education and advocacy. Their contribution enriches our communities and sets an example for girls and women everywhere."
Member for Gosford and Parliamentary Secretary for Disability Inclusion Liesl Tesch said:
"The Central Coast is home to a vast array of fantastic women, shaping change and enriching our community through their everyday actions and incredible community spirit.
"A special congratulations to Central Coast local Layne Paull, a dedicated champion and advocate for disability inclusion.
"Layne's expansive work in disability inclusion across sport, assistive technology, adaptive design and advocacy showcases her commitment to breaking barriers for all.
"Congratulations and thank you for your wonderful work Layne."
