Nominations open for the 2026 Australia Day Awards
Published on 22 September 2025
Mount Alexander Shire Council is inviting residents to nominate an outstanding community member for a 2026 Australia Day Award.
The awards acknowledge individuals who have made a difference to the people around them by contributing their time and skills towards their community.
Mount Alexander Shire Council’s Mayor, Cr Rosie Annear, said that the Australia Day Awards are an important part of our Australia Day – Survival Day community event.
“These awards are a way for us to acknowledge and celebrate the amazing achievements of local community members,” said Mayor Annear.
“We have so many hardworking, dedicated and passionate people in our community, doing incredible things, and these awards are a way to recognise their contributions to making our shire such a great place to live, work and play.
“You can also nominate your favourite local event and, with so many wonderful events across our shire each year, there’s plenty to choose from!
“Australia Day – Survival Day is a wonderful opportunity to present these awards, among other special celebrations, including a citizenship ceremony and the fantastic Survival Day concert, all set in a beautiful, inclusive atmosphere with dancing, connection and delicious food.
“So please think about the people in your lives who make our community a better place, or the event that filled your cup most this year, and why not nominate them for an Australia Day Award.”
Australia Day Awards categories are:
- Citizen of the Year
- Senior Citizen of the Year – nominee must be over 65 years of age on 26 January 2026
- Young Citizen of the Year – nominee must be under 26 years of age on 26 January 2026
- Event of the Year – this includes online events
Eligible nominees must:
- live in Mount Alexander Shire
- be an Australian citizen
- have given outstanding service to the local community over a number of years.
Nominators are asked to:
- outline the nominee’s contribution to the community
- list the nominee’s other significant contributions and/or achievements
- explain ways the nominee has demonstrated excellence in the community
- add other relevant background details
- provide details of another person who can be contacted about the nominee.
To nominate someone for an Australia Day Award, complete the nomination form online www.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/Australia-Day-Awards, pick up a hard copy form from the Castlemaine Civic Centre, or request a hard copy form be sent to you via post by calling 5471 1700.
Nominations close at 5.00pm on Monday 1 December.
Award winners will be announced on Monday 26 January 2026 at the Australia Day – Survival Day community event.
For more information contact Council’s Governance team on 5471 1700 or governance@mountalexander.vic.gov.au.