Nominations are now open for the Greater Dandenong Australia Day Awards 2026.
Greater Dandenong is seeking your nominations to recognise and reward exceptional individuals and groups who do outstanding work that makes a positive impact on the Greater Dandenong community.
These amazing people are recognised for their work in areas such as community service, education, community engagement, the environment, civic participation, the arts and sports.
The Greater Dandenong Australia Day Awards nominations open annually, and Award winners are announced at a special ceremony each year on 26 January.
Greater Dandenong Award Categories include:
- Community Leadership Award
- Young Leader of the Year
- Volunteer of the Year
- Sportsperson of the Year
- Corporate Citizen of the Year
- Community Group of the Year
- Sustainability Award
- Living Treasure Award
- Outstanding Contribution to the Arts Award
Nomination forms will be accepted by one of the following options:
- Complete an online nomination form
- Download a hardcopy of the nomination form
Complete all sections and email form to austday@cgd.vic.gov.au or post to Festivals and Events, Greater Dandenong Council, 39 Clow Street, Dandenong VIC 3175. - If you would like to receive a hardcopy of the nomination form, please contact Festivals and Events at 8571 5090.
Nominations close at 11.59pm on Monday 15 September 2025.
If you require any assistance with completing the nomination form, please contact Festivals and Events team through events@cgd.vic.gov.au or phone us on 8571 5090.
View past Australia Day Awards winners below.
| Applications for nominations open | Tuesday 12 August 2025 |
|---|---|
| Applications for nominations close | Monday 15 September 2025 |
| Panel review and assessment | October 2025 |
| Reference and Police checks for finalists | November & December 2025 |
| Finalists contacted (finalists remain confidential until the event) | January 2026 |
| Greater Dandenong Awards Ceremony | Monday 26 January 2026 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the opening and closing date?
The nominations open Tuesday 12 August 2025 and close Monday 15 September 2025, 11.59pm.
Does the nominee have to be a Greater Dandenong resident?
The nominee does not need to be a Greater Dandenong resident but must have a connection to Greater Dandenong and either live, work, study and/or have a strong relationship with the Greater Dandenong community.
Can I nominate for more than one category?
Yes, you can nominate an individual or group for multiple categories. Please note, an individual or group cannot receive two Awards in the same year.
Can I nominate two people for one award (e.g. husband and wife)?
Yes, however the Awards Assessment Panel reserves the right to decide if they wish to award one or both people.
What information is required to nominate?
You will need to provide the below information to nominate:
- Nominator contact details
- Nominee contact details
- Referee details
- Nominee achievements and contribution to the community
It is strongly encouraged to provide any supporting information or documentation such as newspaper articles.
Who can be a referee and how many are required?
Anyone can be a referee. One referee is required, however two are recommended.
Who can nominate?
Members of a community group are welcome to nominate their own organisation, however an individual nominee must be nominated by someone other than themselves.
I can’t complete the online application form. Can I download and fill it out?
Yes, you can download the form here. Once completed, please submit by emailing to austday@cgd.vic.gov.au
Multiple nominations for the same individual or group in various categories will require separate nomination application forms.
Do I need to notify the individual or group that I am nominating them?
It is recommended to notify them ahead of time so that they are aware of the award, what may be required (e.g. police checks), and that they can attend the event on Monday 26 January 2026.
Can I nominate the same individual or group for the same category next year if unsuccessful?
Yes, you may nominate the same individual or group in the same or different category the following year.
Who are the Awards Assessment Panel?
All nominations will be reviewed by the Awards Assessment Panel. The panel consists of both Councillors and community representatives.
The Awards Assessment Panel reserves the right to give multiple awards in a category or not to give an award if no suitable candidate has been nominated.
Withdrawal of an Award
The City of Greater Dandenong reserves the right to withdraw an award if further information on a recipient’s conduct draws the Greater Dandenong Australia Day Awards into disrepute.
Is the Greater Dandenong Australia Day Awards Ceremony open to the public?
Yes, the Awards Ceremony is open to the public but will require public to register. Registration will open before the ceremony in January 2026.
Find out more about the winners of the 2025 Australia Day Awards.
Find out more about the winners of the 2024 Australia Day Awards.
Find out more about the winners of the 2023 Australia Day Awards.
Find out more about the winners of the 2022 Australia Day Awards.
Find out more about the winners of the 2021 Australia Day Awards.
The Australia Day Awards recognise community members who enrich the lives of others.
Find out more about the winners of the 2020 Australia Day Awards.
Find out more about the winners of the 2019 Australia Day Awards.
Find out more about the winners of the 2018 Australia Day Awards.
Find out more about the winners of the 2017 Australia Day Awards.
Find out more about the winners of the 2016 Australia Day Awards.
Find out more about the winners of the 2015 Australia Day Awards.
