2027 Shellharbour Community & Australia Day Awards
Nominations now open!
Who will be our 2027 Citizen of the Year?
Shellharbour City Council’s Community and Australia Day Awards recognise exceptional people and groups who strengthen our city. We celebrate compassion, generosity, bravery and outstanding service.
Who can be nominated
Residents, community groups and local businesses with a clear connection to Shellharbour are eligible. We are seeking people who have made a significant positive impact on our community. Their contribution may come from the past 12 months or from a single remarkable act. For detailed criteria and examples, see the categories below.
What to include in a nomination
Tell us all about them! Share their story and help us honour excellence in Shellharbour.
- Describe what the nominee/s did, what impact it had and when.
- Explain the difference their actions made for people, groups or the community.
- Include evidence where you can such as results, testimonials, photos, media coverage, awards or data.
- Provide contact details for a referee who can verify the contribution.
How to nominate
1. Read the category information on this page
2. Read the 2027 Community Awards Terms and Conditions.
3. Prepare your application information
4. Submit your nomination online by 11.59pm, Friday 18 September 2026.
2027 Award Categories
Citizen of the Year
This award recognises an individual who has made a significant and positive contribution to the community through leadership, active community involvement, and a strong commitment to creating positive change. It acknowledges the valuable role of volunteers and those who generously give their time to support and strengthen the community. The award celebrates individuals who inspire others, demonstrate civic pride, and contribute to building a connected, inclusive and resilient community. This award recognises an individual who has made a significant and positive contribution to the community through leadership, active community involvement, and a strong commitment to creating positive change. It acknowledges the valuable role of volunteers and those who generously give their time to support and strengthen the community. The award celebrates individuals who inspire others, demonstrate civic pride, and contribute to building a connected, inclusive and resilient community.
Eligibility
Nominees must be 26 years or over as at Wednesday 31 December 2026
Must live in the Shellharbour LGA – proof of address is required
Be an Australian Citizen or permanent resident
Can only win the award one time in each category
Nominees must have contributed to the capacity of the category of the award during 2026
Young Citizen of the Year
This award recognises a young person aged 25 years or under who has demonstrated leadership, active community involvement, including volunteering, and a commitment to positive change. It highlights emerging leaders who inspire others and make a meaningful contribution to the community.
Eligibility
Nominees must be 25 years or under as at Wednesday 31 December 2026
Must live in the Shellharbour LGA – proof of address is required
Be an Australian Citizen or permanent resident
Can only win the award one time in each category
Nominees must have contributed to the capacity of the category of the award during 2026
Athlete of the Year
This award recognises a sportsperson who has achieved outstanding results and demonstrated exemplary sportsmanship. It acknowledges excellence across all levels of participation, with particular recognition given to athletes contributing at the grassroots and community level, as well as those competing at club, regional, state or national levels. The award celebrates dedication, perseverance and a positive influence on the sporting community.
Eligibility
Nominees must be 18 years or over as at Wednesday 31 December 2026
Must live in the Shellharbour LGA – proof of address is required
Be an Australian Citizen or permanent resident
Can only win the award one time in each category
Nominees must have contributed to the capacity of the category of the award during 2026
Young Athlete of the Year
This award recognises a young sportsperson aged 18 years or under who has achieved outstanding sporting results and demonstrated exemplary sportsmanship. It acknowledges excellence across all levels of participation, with particular recognition given to athletes contributing at the grassroots and community level, as well as those competing at club, regional, state or national levels. The award celebrates dedication, perseverance, and a positive influence within the sporting community.
Eligibility
Nominees must be under 18 years as at Wednesday 31 December 2026
Must live in the Shellharbour LGA – proof of address is required
Be an Australian Citizen or permanent resident
Can only win the award one time in each category
Nominees must have contributed to the capacity of the category of the award during 2026
Service to Sports
This award recognises outstanding service that strengthens and supports local sport. It celebrates the valuable contributions of coaches, officials, administrators, and long-term volunteers of all ages who dedicate their time and expertise to growing participation and supporting local clubs. The award acknowledges those who demonstrate commitment, leadership and a lasting positive impact on the sporting community.
Eligibility
Must live in the Shellharbour LGA – proof of address is required
Be an Australian Citizen or permanent resident
Can only win the award one time in each category
Nominees must have contributed to the capacity of the category of the award during 2026
Community Group of the Year
This award recognises a community group whose programs or projects have made a significant contribution to enhancing local wellbeing, connection and social cohesion. It highlights the value of teamwork, innovation and collaboration, and acknowledges groups that deliver measurable and meaningful community impact. The award celebrates initiatives that strengthen community spirit and improve quality of life across the local area.
Eligibility
Must be a group/organisation
Must be based in and/or operating in the Shellharbour LGA
Can only win the award one time in each category
Nominees must have contributed to the capacity of the category of the award during the 2026
Disability Achievement Award
This award recognises an individual, business or organisation that has demonstrated outstanding achievement and contribution in supporting people living with disability. It celebrates accomplishments across areas such as community involvement, advocacy, sport, arts, education or employment. The award acknowledges those who inspire others, challenge barriers, and actively promote inclusion, accessibility and participation, contributing to a more inclusive and connected community.
Eligibility
Nominees may be individuals, community groups or local businesses connected to Shellharbour Contributions must be for the Shellharbour Community
Individuals must be an Australian Citizen or permanent resident
Can only win the award one time in each category
Nominees must have contributed to the capacity of the category of the award during 2026