Nominations for the 2026 ACT Women’s Awards are now open. The awards recognise and celebrate women and gender‑diverse people in the ACT who drive meaningful, lasting change.
Nominations close on 10 May. Nomination forms are available at: ACT Women’s Awards and Honour Roll – ACT Government
This year, the program has four new award categories:
- Excellence in Industry
Recognising outstanding contributions to innovation, leadership or advancement within any industry or sector, highlighting women’s economic participation and leadership across diverse fields. - Lifetime Achievement
Honouring an individual whose lifelong dedication has created meaningful and enduring change through sustained leadership, innovation or service that has shaped policy, practice or culture and established a legacy that continues to influence and inspire. - Gender Equity and Social Change
Celebrating efforts to advance gender equity, inclusion or social change. This category may include explicit links to the priorities of the ACT Women’s Plan and the systemic change it seeks to drive. - Minister’s Impact
A new discretionary award selected by the Minister each year, with a theme that responds to emerging needs or priorities for women and girls in the ACT.
“These new categories acknowledge the incredible diversity of local women’s contributions, not only within the Territory, but across Australia and around the world,” women’s minister Dr Marisa Paterson said.
“We want these Awards to shine a light on women whose work creates real, lasting change. That might be in an industry that’s breaking new ground, in efforts to advance equity and social change, or through a lifetime of dedication to community service.”
Dr Paterson encouraged everyone in the ACT to think about the women who inspire them and to put forward a nomination.
“It’s one of the most meaningful ways we can recognise and celebrate their contribution.”
Lauren Cannell, 2025 ACT Women’s Award recipient, said: “Nominate someone who you think will use the platform to help other women, grow their impact and someone who will inspire young ladies in the ACT to continue to work towards gender equality.”
Jayanti Gupta, 2025 ACT Senior Women’s Award recipient, said: “When we observe, appreciate, recognise and nominate, we create a culture where service is seen, valued and celebrated. When we nominate someone, we not only honour them — we affirm the values we want our community to uphold.”
“I am having a wonderful time as the 2025 ACT Senior Woman of the Year. I feel a bounce in my steps, a smile that lights up my face more than it had previously and feel absolutely dedicated in my community role.”
“Having nominated others for awards, I understand that nominating someone is more than filling out a form — it is an act of gratitude and respect. It says, ‘I see you. I see your effort, your quiet dedication, your impact.’ Recognition validates the countless hours, the unseen labour, and the difference one person makes in the lives of others. It strengthens community spirit, inspires others to contribute, and creates a culture where service and leadership are valued.”
