Summary:
The Australian of the Year Awards recognize community members who make a difference and inspire others. The NSW finalists for the 2026 awards have been announced, covering various categories such as Senior Australian of the Year, Young Australian of the Year, and Local Hero. Learn about the impressive accomplishments of these 26 nominees and their contributions to society.
What This Means for You:
- Discover the achievements of your fellow Australians who are driving change and making a difference in various fields.
- Gain inspiration from their stories and learn about potential role models in your community or area of interest.
- Stay informed about the NSW award recipients, who will be announced on 7 November, and watch the ceremony online at australianoftheyear.org.au.
- Get involved in your community, and who knows—you may be inspired to become a future nominee for these prestigious awards.
Original Post:

Meet the NSW finalists for the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards.
After choosing four winners from each state and territory, these 32 nominees will move on as nominees for the national award.
2026 NSW Australian of the Year nominees
- Professor Nadia Badawi AM — pioneering neonatologist (Warrawee)
- Dr Jennifer Matthews — marine biologist (Manly Vale)
- Nicholas Stewart — LGBTIQ+ rights advocate (Waterloo)
- Dr Alison Thompson OAM — global humanitarian (Sutherland Shire)
2026 NSW Senior Australian of the Year nominees
- Professor Henry Brodaty AO — dementia treatment pioneer (Double Bay)
- Bob Holder— professional cowboy (Cootamundra)
- Sue Mann — home care nurse (Wamberal, Central Coast)
- Peter Watson — founder, Men’s Kitchen (Forestville)
2026 Young Australian of the Year for NSW
- Nedd Brockmann — ultramarathon runner for homelessness (Randwick)
- Jack Brown — co-founder, Talk2MeBro (Wollongong)
Ruby Riethmuller — girls wellbeing champion (Sydney)
- Dr Rand Younes — dental health advocate (Sydney)
2026 Local Hero for NSW
- Andrew Clark and Lyndell Clark — robotics mentors (Wollongong)
- Kate Cleary — restoring lives (Galong)
- Aneika Kapeen — Indigenous youth advocate (Clarence Valley)
- Theresa Mitchell — carer for the homeless (Banora Point)
Extra Information:
- Official website of the Australian of the Year Awards: Learn more about the awards, their mission, and previous winners.
- ABC News Article: Read about the 2021 Australian of the Year Awards ceremony and recipients.
People Also Ask About:
- What is the purpose of the Australian of the Year Awards?
- Who can be nominated for the Australian of the Year Awards?
- When was the Australian of the Year Awards ceremony established?
- Who was the first Australian of the Year?
- How can I watch the Australian of the Year Awards ceremony?
Expert Opinion:
The Australian of the Year Awards not only celebrate the remarkable achievements of individuals but also inspire others to contribute to their communities, driving positive change and fostering a culture of giving back in Australia.
Key Terms:
- Australian of the Year Awards
- NSW finalists
- Senior Australian of the Year
- Young Australian of the Year
- Local Hero
- Dementia treatment pioneer
- Neonatologist
- Marine biologist
- LGBTIQ+ rights advocate
- Global humanitarian
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