Deaf Australia Awards
Celebrating excellence and leadership across the Deaf community.
Read more to learn about Deaf Australia’s awards, how nominations work, and the inspiring Deaf community members recognised each year for their achievements and contributions. These awards celebrate Deaf people who have made a meaningful contribution to theAustralian Deaf Community.
2026 Nominations Open Now
Do you know someone who has made a positive impact in the Deaf community?
Or would you like to put yourself forward for recognition?
This is an opportunity to recognise individuals who have demonstrated leadership, advocacy, commitment, and service to the Deaf community. We encourage nominations from across Australia and welcome a diverse range of candidates and achievements.
Whether you are nominating yourself or someone else, we invite you to take part and help us celebrate the people making a difference.
📅 Nominations close: 12 October 2026
🔗 Submit your nomination: Click here link
We look forward to receiving your nominations and celebrating the achievements of our community.
Deaf Australian of the Year
Must be a Deaf person living in Australia.
Must be aged 25 years or older.
Must show outstanding contribution to the Deaf Community
Deaf Youth Australian of the Year
Must be a Deaf person living in Australia.
Must be aged 25 years or under.
Must show outstanding contribution to the Deaf youth community or Deaf Community
Deaf Community Volunteer
Must be a Deaf person living in Australia.
Must be recongised volunteer
Must show voluntary contribution to the Deaf community or wider community
Deaf Australia Awards Process
Learn more about how Deaf Australia Awards nominations, selection and award process.
Deaf Australia publishes an official announcement advising that award nominations will open. This typically occurs around June each year.
Nominations are accepted during the published nomination period and must be submitted using the approved nomination process.
Award recipients are formally announced and recognise. All eligible nominations are reviewed and assessed.
Final selection is determined by the Deaf Australia Board at the Deaf Australia Annual General Meeting (AGM).