The NSW Women of the Year Awards return in 2026 to recognise women and girls whose leadership, determination and commitment continue to shape communities across the state.
Established in 2012, the awards highlight those who challenge inequality, drive innovation and serve as role models through their personal and professional contributions.
The awards include the NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year, which celebrates an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander woman who strengthens economic, cultural or social opportunities for her community.
In 2025, the NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year was awarded to Gamilaroi woman and Indigenous crisis support line co-designer Marjorie Anderson, who helped launch 13 YARN - the first national 24/7 phone support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Less than three years since its launch, the service has answered nearly 70,000 calls.
Speaking at the awards ceremony in Sydney earlier this year, Ms Anderson said she felt honoured to be recognised.
"I feel humbled, because there were some magnificent women in that finalist group," she said.
Ms Anderson said the design of 13 YARN was informed by direct community consultation, placing mob at the centre of its development.
"I came back and I designed the line, and went back to mob and said 'Did I read you right? Did I hear you right?'" she said.
"We made a couple of little changes, and we put it in place.
"That's the key… it's been designed by mob for mob. It wasn't me saying I'm going to deliver this for you because I know best. It's the mob who know best."
The NSW Women of the Year Awards encompasses six categories.
The NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year, which celebrates an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander woman who strengthens economic, cultural or social opportunities for her community.
The NSW Premier's Woman of Excellence, which recognises a woman who has excelled in her field and inspired lasting change.
The NSW Community Hero award, which honours a woman who contributes selflessly to her local area.
The NSW Regional Woman of the Year, which recognises the efforts of a woman living outside Greater Sydney, Newcastle or Wollongong who has driven progress in regional NSW.
The NSW Young Woman of the Year, which is open to women aged 16–30 who have shown achievement or potential in their chosen field.
The Ones to Watch award, which highlights girls aged 7-15 who have shown courage, determination or kindness in supporting others.
Up to 10 girls will be recognised and profiled ahead of the awards ceremony on 5 March 2026 in Sydney.
The NSW Women of the Year Awards continue to spotlight individuals making meaningful change across the state.
Nominations close on 9 September 2025 with award winners being announced on 5 Match 2026.
