Nominations are now open for the 2026 National Awards for Local Government.
The annual awards recognise locally led innovation across 13 categories and are now celebrating 40 years.
Elected local government organisations, associations and other recognised organisations can check their eligibility and submit entries until 11:55 PM (AEST) 6 April 2026 through the National Awards for Local Government Awards Platform.
Nearly 6,500 votes were cast during the 2025 awards, where 121 councils were represented across 192 nominations.
Winning projects included the West Arnhem Regional Council's Youth Leadership Summit, the City of Stirling's Naala Djookan Healing Centre and the Shire of Murray's The Exchange Hotel.
Voting will then be open to councils and the broader public from 9.00 AM (AEST) 7 April 2026 to 11:55 PM (AEST) 4 May 2026, with winners in each category expected to be announced in June at the 2026 Australian Council of Local Government.
Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Kristy McBain said the awards were a great opportunity for councils to showcase their achievements.
"This year marks four decades of recognising the tremendous work that councils deliver.
"I encourage folks across Australia to call out innovative local projects that are improving their communities.
"Every nomination and vote represents a job well done for these councils."
