NOMINATIONS opened this week for the 2026 HESTA Excellence Awards.

The awards shine a national spotlight on the health professionals and teams making a difference in a range of settings across the aged care, allied health, community services, and disability services sectors.

HESTA CEO Debby Blakey said the HESTA Awards provide a unique opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary impact health and community services professionals make and encourages people to nominate a team or individual making a difference.

“Health and community services professionals consistently go above and beyond to improve lives and drive positive change,” Ms Blakey said.

“The commitment and resilience they demonstrate is truly extraordinary and has a lasting impact, uplifting individuals and helping to build more inclusive, supportive communities for all.

2025 HESTA Excellence Award winners.

“I encourage everyone to nominate outstanding individuals and teams for a HESTA award, so we can recognise their outstanding work and inspire others by sharing their stories and achievements.”

Nominations are open until midnight (AEST) Sunday, April 12, 2026.

Employers, colleagues, and individuals are invited to nominate for the Individual Leadership or Team Excellence categories.

Each category will honour four winners – one from each sector – highlighting the breadth of talent and teamwork across Australia.

Winners will each receive a prize to further their personal or professional development, or to enhance processes and services within their workplaces.

Finalists will be revealed on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, ahead of the awards ceremony on Thursday, August 6, 2026.

For more information on how to nominate and for full award details, visit 2026 HESTA Excellence Awards.