Women leaders, councillors and councils driving gender equality, innovation and community change across New South Wales will be recognised through the 2026 Ministers’ Awards for Women in Local Government, with nominations now open.

Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said women across local government had made invaluable contributions to their communities.

“Throughout my years in local government, I’ve worked with many outstanding women who have given an enormous amount to their communities,” Mr Hoenig said.

“They’ve served as councillors, managers, engineers, planners, community workers and across every part of local government. Their contribution deserves to be recognised.”

Mr Hoenig said women now represent 40 per cent of elected councillors in NSW following the most recent local government elections, marking significant progress towards more representative councils.

“While this is significant progress, we should continue working towards councils that reflect the diversity of the communities they represent.”

Now in their 19th year, the awards celebrate outstanding women working in local government whose leadership, dedication and public service have helped strengthen communities across the state.

The awards will be presented by NSW Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig and Minister for Women Jodie Harrison at Parliament House on 22 October 2026, recognising women from metropolitan, regional and rural councils who are making a lasting impact.

This year’s awards introduce two new categories — Excellence in Mentoring and Sponsorship and Emerging Councillor Leadership — reflecting the growing importance of supporting the next generation of women leaders in local government.

The awards recognise achievements across a broad range of areas, from young professionals beginning their careers to senior leaders transforming workplace culture and councillors strengthening women’s representation in public life.

The 2026 award categories include:

• Rising Star Award – recognising a female employee aged 25 or under, including apprentices, trainees and cadets, who demonstrates initiative and strong early career performance.
• Champion of Change Award – honouring senior leaders or general managers who have delivered meaningful cultural or structural reforms to advance gender equity.
• Breaking Barriers Award – celebrating women who have challenged traditional career pathways and helped overcome gender stereotypes.
• Excellence in Gender Equity Award – recognising councils that create inclusive workplaces and support women’s participation, career progression and leadership.
• Woman of Distinction Award – acknowledging women who demonstrate excellence, integrity and leadership while serving as positive role models.
• Excellence in Councillor Leadership Award – recognising female councillors who have strengthened the voice and influence of elected women in local government.
• Excellence in Mentoring and Sponsorship Award – celebrating women who actively support, mentor and champion the development of other women.
• Emerging Councillor Leadership Award – recognising first-term female councillors demonstrating strong leadership, public service and community commitment.

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said women leaders across councils were helping shape better services, stronger communities and opportunities for future generations.

“Whether they’re serving as mayors, councillors, executives or staff, women are making a lasting difference in all of our councils,” Ms Harrison said.

“These awards recognise not only individual excellence, but the powerful impact that women in local government have on the decisions and actions that shape our communities.”

The NSW Government is encouraging councils, colleagues and community members to nominate women whose leadership and service deserve recognition.

Nominations for the 2026 Ministers’ Awards for Women in Local Government close on 28 August 2026 and can be submitted through the Office of Local Government website.

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