Eleven exceptional women and gender-diverse people have been named finalists in the 2026 ACT Women’s Awards for breaking barriers in the automotive industry, advancing women’s safety, transforming healthcare and driving disability inclusion or community participation.
This year marks an exciting new chapter for the awards, redesigned to reflect the breadth of women’s contributions and encourage greater participation from across the community. They now recognise impact across all fields – industry, research, advocacy, community leadership and social change – whether their impact is local, national or international.
Minister for Women, Seniors and Veterans Caitlin Tough announced the finalists, recognising those whose leadership, innovation and advocacy are creating lasting positive change in the ACT and beyond.
“The ACT Women’s Awards celebrate the remarkable women and gender diverse people whose work is making a real difference in our communities, workplaces and society,” Minister Tough said.
“The refreshed Awards recognise that women create impact in many different ways and across many different fields. The outstanding response to this year’s nominations shows the value of broadening the Awards and highlighting the diversity of women’s contributions.”
Minister Tough said this year’s finalists represent an extraordinary range of achievements. Each finalist has shown a commitment to improving outcomes for their community and helping create positive, lasting change.
“Behind every nomination is a story of persistence, vision and service. These nominees have dedicated their time, expertise and energy to improving opportunities and outcomes for others, often over many years,” she said.
“Everyone here has identified needs in their communities and taken action, whether by creating new opportunities, challenging barriers, improving services or driving reform. Their work is making a tangible difference to the lives of others.”
41 nominations* were received across three public award categories, including:
- 26 nominations for the Excellence in Industry Award
- 12 nominations for the Gender Equity and Social Change Award
- 7 nominations for the Lifetime Achievement Award
*Some nominees were nominated for multiple categories.
A new fourth category, the Minister’s Impact Award, recognises people whose work is making a significant positive impact in an area identified as a priority by the Minister for Women. Unlike other categories, this award is not open for public nomination and is selected by the Minister for Women from the broader pool of nominees.
The winners will be announced at the 2026 ACT Women’s Awards ceremony on 3 September 2026.
The 2026 ceremony will also recognise new inductees to the ACT Women’s Honour Roll, celebrating women who have received significant honours and awards for their contributions to the community.
“I congratulate all finalists and thank everyone who took the time to nominate a someone whose work is helping create a more inclusive, equitable and connected community,” Minister Tough said.
