The 2026 Ministers' Awards for Women in Local Government will recognise outstanding women and councils driving leadership, gender equity and positive change across the sector.
Nominations have opened for the 2026 Ministers' Awards for Women in Local Government, recognising the outstanding women whose leadership, service and commitment are strengthening communities across New South Wales.
Now in their 19th year, the Awards recognise women working and serving in councils whose enduring contributions have helped build stronger communities across the state.
The Awards will be presented by Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig and Minister for Women Jodie Harrison at Parliament House on 22 October 2026.
This year, two new award categories have been introduced - Excellence in Mentoring and Sponsorship and Emerging Councillor Leadership. Together with the existing awards, they recognise women whose leadership, innovation and service are helping shape the future of local government.
Nominations are open in the following categories for both metropolitan and rural/regional councils:
1. Rising Star Award - recognises an outstanding female employee aged 25 or under (including apprentices, trainees and cadets) who demonstrates strong performance and initiative early in her career.
2. Champion of Change Award - recognises a general manager or senior leader who has driven meaningful cultural or structural change to advance gender equity in local government.
3. Breaking Barriers Award - recognises a woman in local government who has challenged traditional career pathways and helped break down gender barriers and stereotypes.
4. Excellence in Gender Equity Award - recognises a council that is creating inclusive workplaces and supporting women's participation, progression and leadership.
5. Woman of Distinction Award - recognises a woman who has demonstrated excellence, integrity and leadership, and who is a positive role model within her organisation, community or the sector.
6. Excellence in Councillor Leadership Award - recognises a female councillor who has strengthened the presence, voice and impact of elected women in local government.
7. Excellence in Mentoring and Sponsorship Award - recognises a woman who has supported, mentored, sponsored or championed the development and progression of women in local government.
8. Emerging Councillor Leadership Award - recognises a first-term female councillor who has demonstrated strong early leadership, commitment to public service and contribution to her council or community.
Nominations for the 2026 Ministers' Awards for Women in Local Government close on 28 August 2026 and can be made via the Office of Local Government website.
Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said:
"Throughout my years in local government, I've worked with many outstanding women who have given an enormous amount to their communities. They've served as councillors, managers, engineers, planners, community workers and across every part of local government. Their contribution deserves to be recognised.
"These awards acknowledge women whose leadership, judgement and commitment have made a real difference in their councils and in the communities they serve.
"It's encouraging to see more women stepping forward to serve their communities, with women now making up 40 per cent of elected councillors in New South Wales following the last local government elections. That's significant progress, but we should continue working towards councils that reflect the diversity of the communities they represent.
"I know there are remarkable women making a difference in councils across New South Wales every day. I encourage councils, colleagues and community members to nominate someone whose contribution deserves to be recognised."
Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:
"The dedication and leadership I've witnessed from women in local government over the years has been truly inspiring, and these Awards continue to be a wonderful celebration of their achievements.
"Whether they're serving as mayors, councillors, executives or staff, women are making a lasting difference in all of our councils - championing better services and local priorities, and creating opportunities for new generations to follow in their footsteps.
"These Awards recognise not only individual excellence, but the powerful impact that women in local government have on the decisions and actions that shape our communities."
