Australia’s peak human rights body is calling for nominations for the 2026 Australian Young People’s Human Rights Award.
The Australian Human Rights Commission is encouraging people to nominate young human rights defenders and advocates aged 25 and under who strive to improve the lives of people across the country.
In 2026 the Awards also mark the 40th anniversary of the Australian Human Rights Commission, highlighting 4 decades of progress in promoting and protecting human rights.
‘These awards highlight the people and organisations leading positive change in Australia – those improving lives every day in healthcare, education, law, the arts, the environment and beyond,’ President Hugh de Kretser said.
‘There are so many doing vital work to build a fairer, more inclusive society. These awards recognise their impact and help share their stories.’
Shakira Robinson received the 2025 Young People’s Award for her advocacy for the prevention of violence against women and children.
Previous winners include Vanessa Turnbull-Roberts (2019), Caroline Cecile Fletcher (2022) and Chanel Contos (2021).
In addition to the Young People’s Award, champions of social justice are also recognised across 4 other categories:
- Human Rights Medal
- Media & Creative Industries Award
- Community Award
- Law Award
Nominations are free, can be anonymous and close on 3 August 2026. The Commission will announce the finalists in September.
The finalists will be celebrated and award recipients announced at a ceremony and reception in Sydney on Thursday 10 December, International Human Rights Day.
Nominators whose nominees are chosen as finalists will receive one complimentary ticket to the awards ceremony.
The Commission has run the Australian Human Rights Awards annually since 1987.
