- Nominations are open for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards.
- Queenslanders are called to 'see them, hear them and nominate them.'
- Four categories include Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year, Young Australian of the Year, and Local Hero.
Queenslanders are encouraged to nominate individuals whose actions inspire, lead, and strengthen communities in the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards.
The awards celebrate the achievements and dedication of people who consistently go above and beyond to help and improve the lives of others.
The Australian of the Year Awards are driven by public nominations presenting an opportunity for special Queenslanders to be recognised with one of the nation's highest honours.
There are four national award categories:
- Australian of the Year
- Senior Australian of the Year (65 years and over)
- Young Australian of the Year (16 to 30 years old)
- Australia's Local Hero
The Queensland recipients of the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards will represent the State at the national awards held on the evening of 25 January 2026 in Canberra.
Premier David Crisafulli said the Australian of the Year Awards shone a spotlight on Queenslanders who go the extra mile for others, often without recognition.
"I encourage Queenslanders to nominate someone whose passion, commitment, and kindness makes a real difference in the lives of others," Premier Crisafulli said.
"As a born and bred Queenslander, I know we have some of the most inspiring people who call this State home, and we want to see them get the recognition they deserve."
If you see and hear a Queenslander who is demonstrating exceptional work, nominate them at: www.australianoftheyear.org.au .
Nominations close at midnight on Thursday, 31 July 2025.
