The first-term councillor received the Emerging Women Leader Award at the inaugural Mary Rogers Awards, with the state government citing her “exceptional leadership” and her efforts to empower young people to influence local decision-making through youth-led initiatives.
In a statement on social media, Cr Nikolic said she was “humbled and enthused” by the recognition.
“This award isn’t just a reflection of what has been achieved so far, but about the future we are building together — where our communities are heard, where young leaders rise with confidence and where Melbourne’s west continues to shape the agenda at every level of government,” she wrote.
Cr Nikolic currently serves as co-chair of the Brimbank Youth Council and earlier this year was deputy chair of LeadWest, an advocacy alliance for Melbourne’s western metropolitan region.
The Victorian Local Governance Association (VLGA) noted that Cr Nikolic has supported young people to influence policy and lead campaigns on mental health, inclusion and civic participation. The association also highlighted her regional impact, including contributions to major infrastructure priorities such as Melbourne Airport Rail, Sunshine Station and the Calder Park Drive interchange.
The state government launched the Mary Rogers Awards this year to promote women’s leadership in local government and reinforce the importance of gender equality in community decision-making. The awards are named in honour of Mary Rogers, who in 1920 became the first woman elected to a Victorian municipal council.
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