Nominations Open for Albany‘s 2026 Community Citizen of the Year Awards
Albany, WA – The City of Albany is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Community Citizen of the Year Awards, recognizing individuals, organizations, and events that contribute to the vibrancy of the local community. Nominations will be open until Friday,October 31,2025.Now in their 20th+ year, the awards celebrate the often-unrecognized contributions of Albany residents who foster a positive community spirit and demonstrate exceptional voluntary work. Four categories are available: Community Citizen of the Year (individuals over 16), Young Community Citizen of the year (ages 16-30), Senior Community Citizen of the Year (ages 65+), and Active Citizenship (community groups or events).Alongside the Citizen of the Year Awards, the Annette Knight Community Leadership Medal will again be presented, recognizing a voluntary leader who embodies the legacy of compassion, community service, and dedication exemplified by the late Annette Knight. Previous recipients include Barbara Thomas (2024) and Averil Dean (2023).
Deputy Mayor Paul Terry emphasized the importance of the awards, stating, “the Community Citizen of the Year Awards shine a light on those people and groups who quietly go about making our city better.” He added, “These awards are about recognizing them.”
Nominations are encouraged for contributions across a wide range of areas, including education, health, fundraising, sports, arts, and environmental initiatives.
Full criteria and nomination details are available at www.albany.wa.gov.au.Albany recipients will be announced at an awards ceremony held at Binalup / Middleton Beach on Australia Day. The City of Albany delivers the awards in partnership with Auspire and Joint Patrons His Excellency the Honourable Chris Dawson AC APM Governor of Western Australia, and mrs Darrilyn Dawson. Principal Partner is the Department of Communities, with Media Partners 9News Perth, 6PR Perth and WA Today.
