Spirit of Canberra Awards
The Spirit of Canberra Awards shine a light on those who embody compassion, courage, and commitment to community.
Since their inception in 2007, these awards have honoured the individuals and organisations who step up to create meaningful change, those whose tireless efforts enrich the social, economic, environmental, and cultural fabric of our city.
More than a ceremony, the awards are a movement of recognition and gratitude. They create a moment for our community to celebrate the stories of people who often work quietly, without expectation of acknowledgment, yet whose contributions ripple across generations. The Spirit of Canberra Awards give voice to the everyday heroes and changemakers who remind us what’s possible when vision and determination meet compassion.
Nominations are open to all, giving every inspiring story the chance to be shared.
The 2026 Awards
The 2026 Lifeline Canberra Spirit of Canberra awards are now open for nominations.
Anyone can nominate themselves, a peer, a community member or an organisation. The nominee is then sent the full nomination application to fill out themselves which they must return by the nomination close date.
Click here to enter your nomination for the 2026 Spirit of Canberra Awards
The awards will be presented at a formal luncheon to acknowledge and celebrate all nominees. Each nominee has two tickets reserved for themselves and one guest.
Venue: Old Parliament House
Date: 12pm – 2pm Wednesday 28 October 2026
If you have any queries about this event, please get in touch with events@act.lifeline.org.au
Spirit of Hope
Hope is an optimistic state of mind that is based on an expectation of positive outcomes with respect to events and circumstances in one’s life or the world at large.
Designed for either individuals or businesses who have a unique vision for the future of Canberra and are working towards that goal.
These awardees demonstrate an ongoing commitment to the world at large. This award can go to anyone affecting change of any size.
Spirit of Impact
Impact is to have a strong effect on someone or something.
Designed for businesses, teams, groups and organisations making a difference. That are are using their position in the community for good, investing in the community and elevating their staff and clients. This award can go to anyone affecting change of any size.
Spirit of Resilience
Resilience is the process and outcome of successfully adapting to challenging life experiences.
Designed for individuals, this award celebrates those who have overcome adversity and are bettering their community using their experience.
This award can go to anyone affecting change of any size.
The People’s Choice Award
This award is voted on by the public from our existing pool of Spirit of Canberra nominees. This award gives the Canberra community a chance to have their say and put forward who they believe deserves to be celebrated.
Voting for the 2026 People’s choice award will open when nominations close and our finalists are announced. Keep an eye on this page and the Lifeline Canberra social media channels for the opening of People’s choice award voting.