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Nominations for the 2026 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are officially open, and it’s time to shine a spotlight on the volunteers who strengthen our communities every day.

These awards are proudly hosted by the NSW Centre for Volunteering, not Palliative Care NSW, and offer the opportunity to publicly honour the remarkable contributions of people serving their communities.

Volunteers play a vital role in building connected, cohesive and resilient communities. Whether they provide emotional support, deliver essential services, or simply give their time to help others, their impact is immeasurable.

Two Types of Nominations

Nominators can choose between two pathways:

1. Nomination for Recognition

A simple and meaningful way to say thank you.

• These nominations are not judged.
• The nominee will be invited to their local regional ceremony.
• They will receive a certificate recognising their contribution to the community.

This option is perfect for organisations wanting to honour their volunteers without entering them into the formal judging process.

 

2. Nomination for Judging

For volunteers or teams who should be considered for a statewide honour.

Categories:  Young Volunteer of the Year, Adult Volunteer of the Year, Senior Volunteer of the Year, Volunteer Team of the Year, Emergency Volunteer of the Year, Volunteer Leader of the Year, and Not-for-Profit Voluntary Governance Award.

• These nominations will be judged as part of the NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards in the appropriate category.
• Finalists and category winners will be acknowledged at regional and state ceremonies.

 

Nominate a Volunteer Today

If you know someone who deserves to be celebrated for their service, dedication or community spirit, now is the time to nominate them. Nominations close Friday, 29 May 2026. Please help spread the word that nominations are open.

 

Submitting Multiple Nominations?

Organisations submitting more than 20 nominations can access bulk nomination spreadsheets by contacting the Awards Team at: award@volunteering.com.au

To explore the nomination guidelines, FAQs, nomination tips and more, visit the 2026 Awards page.