Four outstanding women working in fields as diverse as gendered violence, gerontology or the science of ageing, inherited cancer risk and the property sector have won this year’s ACT Women’s Awards.
This year’s awards have been refreshed with brand new categories that showcase the diverse contributions women and gender-diverse people make across a range of industry and community sectors.
The 2026 ACT Women’s Award winners are:
Excellence in Industry Award: Ashlee Berry
Ashlee Berry, the ACT & Capital Region Executive Director of the Property Council of Australia, is a demonstrated leader and advocate in the property sector. Her achievements include advancing housing policy, championing women in industry, and volunteering and fundraising for community initiatives. She does all this in a traditionally male-dominated industry.
Gender Equity and Social Change Award: Robyn Smith
Robyn Smyth is an advocate who has improved education, psychosocial support and policy outcomes for people living with inherited cancer risk. She gained national recognition by running the City2Surf topless last year, baring mastectomy scars across her chest, with the slogan ‘Flat out of Funding’.
Lifetime Achievement Award: Dr Sujatha Shanmugasundaram (Dr Suja Shan)
Dr Suja Shan is a leader in nursing education and gerontology, the study of ageing and older people, whose 35 years of research, teaching and professional leadership have strengthened dementia and aged care practice. Dr Shan has at least 5 fellowships, 3 certifications, 15 awards, published 25 papers in refereed journals and presented 30 topics in national and international conferences.
Minister’s Impact Award: Katherine Berney
Katherine Berney, Prevention of Gendered Violence Director at the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education, is a widely published commentator on sector reform, funding dynamics and public discourse. Minister for Women, Seniors and Veterans Caitlin Tough recognised the significant contributions that Katherine has made for influencing national policy reform and systems change to improve women’s safety.
These four women, alongside the seven other finalists and many other nominees, are shining examples of leadership, ingenuity, dedication and compassion.
