ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

The Australian Government acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and acknowledges their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respects to the people, the cultures and the Elders past and present.

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Congratulations to the 2026 National NAIDOC Awards Winners!

17 August 2026
2026 National NAIDOC Awards winners announced

The National NAIDOC Committee has announced the winners of the 2026 National NAIDOC Awards.

You can find out more about each winner at: www.naidoc.org.au   

  • Lifetime Achievement Award: Aunty Rhoda Roberts AO
  • Person of the Year Award: Aunty Pat Turner AO
  • Female Elder Award: Mrs Christine Corby AM
  • Male Elder Award: Dr Stephen Hagan
  • Sportsperson Award: Ms Caitlyn Costello
  • Youth Award: Mr Tyson Neal-Edwards
  • Creative Talent Award: Kaylene Whiskey
  • Caring for Country and Culture Award: Southern Aboriginal Corporation Ltd
  • Education Award: The Aboriginal & Islander Independent Community School (The Murri School)
  • Innovation Award: Young Indigenous Women’s STEM Academy