The finalists for the 2026 National NAIDOC Week Awards have been announced, recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, organisations and initiatives making significant contributions to their communities across Australia.
The awards celebrate achievement in areas including education, culture, innovation, sport, leadership and caring for Country, with winners to be announced during National NAIDOC Week.
Aunty Rhoda Roberts AO has also been recognised with the 2026 National NAIDOC Lifetime Achievement Award, in a rare decision by the committee to grant the award posthumously.
This year's awards coincide with the theme "50 Years of Deadly", marking five decades of NAIDOC Week celebrations while recognising the strength, resilience and achievements of First Nations peoples.
Caring for Country and Culture Award
This award recognises individuals or organisations demonstrating outstanding leadership in protecting and strengthening Country, culture, language and traditional knowledge for future generations.
Finalists:
- Southern Aboriginal Corporation (WA)
- Miromaa Aboriginal Language & Technology Centre (NSW)
- Girringun Aboriginal Corporation (Queensland)
Creative Talent Award
The Creative Talent Award honours Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and creatives whose work celebrates culture, inspires communities and contributes to Australia's creative landscape.
Finalists:
- Kaylene Whiskey (SA/NT)
- Molly Hunt (WA)
- Brolga Dance Academy – Creative Director Jodie Welsh (NSW)
Education Award
The Education Award recognises excellence in teaching, learning and educational leadership that improves outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students while strengthening culture and community.
Finalists:
- The Aboriginal & Islander Independent Community School (The Murri School) (Queensland)
- Ninti Training Ltd (Northern Territory)
- Aunty Stephanie Armstrong (ACT)
Female Elder Award
The Female Elder Award celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women whose lifelong leadership, wisdom and service have strengthened communities and inspired future generations.
Finalists:
- Mrs Christine Corby AM (NSW)
- Regina 'Pilawuk' Wilson (Northern Territory)
- Aunty Lorraine Peeters (NSW)
Innovation Award
This award recognises innovative Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led initiatives creating new solutions to benefit communities and drive positive social change.
Finalists:
- Young Indigenous Women's STEM Academy (Queensland)
- 17x16CDP Youth Collective (NSW)
- Bars Behind Me (NSW)
Male Elder Award
The Male Elder Award honours Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men whose lifetime of leadership, cultural authority and service has made a lasting contribution to their communities.
Finalists:
- Dr Stephen Hagan (Queensland)
- Dr Dean Yibarbuk (Northern Territory)
- Oscar Colbung (WA)
NAIDOC Person Award
The NAIDOC Person Award is one of the highest honours presented during National NAIDOC Week, recognising an individual whose outstanding leadership and service has had a significant national impact for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Finalists:
- Aunty Pat Turner AM (Northern Territory)
- Timmy Duggan (Northern Territory)
- Dr Lana Leslie-Henfling (NSW)
Additional award categories, including Sportsperson, Youth, Lifetime Achievement and other national honours, also recognise excellence across a diverse range of fields, reflecting the breadth of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership throughout Australia.
All winners will be announced during the 2026 National NAIDOC Week Awards as part of celebrations recognising the achievements and ongoing contributions of First Nations peoples across the country.
