2026 NAATSIHWP Excellence Awards
‘Resilient Roots, Gathering Strength & Growing Futures’
Nominations are now open for the 2026 NAATSIHWP Excellence Awards, celebrating the outstanding contributions of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Health Workers, Health Practitioners, and organisations across Australia.
These awards recognise individuals and services that are making a meaningful difference to the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities through leadership, innovation, cultural strength, and commitment to excellence in care.
Award recipients will join a respected group of professionals who have made lasting contributions to improving health outcomes for our communities and strengthening the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workforce.
Award Categories
Nominations are open across four categories:
Young Warrior – Early career Health Workers and Practitioners (less than 3 years’ experience) demonstrating passion, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to community.
Individual Champion – Experienced professionals making a significant impact through leadership, advocacy, and the development of best practice models of care.
Workforce Legend (Respected Elder) – Highly experienced Health Workers and Practitioners (30+ years’ service) who have shown outstanding leadership, mentorship, and lifelong dedication.
Models of Care & Career Pathways Innovation – Organisations delivering innovative, culturally safe health services and supporting career pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners.
(The Board Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award is nominated and selected by the NAATSIHWP Board.)
Why Nominate?
By nominating, you help:
Recognise excellence and leadership in the workforce
Celebrate individuals and organisations making a real difference
Inspire future generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health professionals
Showcase strong, culturally responsive models of care
It’s simple you just need to write why you believe the person you nominated deserves to win it.
Key Information
Nominations close: COB 15 August 2026
Submit nominations: eso@naatsihwp.org.au
Winners announced: NAATSIHWP Conference Gala Dinner, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, 22 September 2026
