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Yarra Community Awards

Learn more about award categories and how to submit a nomination.

The Yarra Community Awards are held each year to recognise the everyday heroes who make our city such a wonderful place to live, work and visit.

There are 7 categories and we invite community members to nominate individuals or groups who are making a difference in Yarra.

Winners are chosen by our Community Awards Committee. The selection panel comprises 5 community representatives who assess nominations based on:

  • their contribution to the Yarra community
  • the positive impact they have made
  • their leadership and work as a positive role model.

Winners are celebrated and recognised at an awards ceremony. A prize of $500 is awarded to the winners of the Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year and Community Initiative of the Year categories. A prize of $250 is awarded to the winners in each of the remaining categories.

How to submit a nomination

You can nominate an individual or group by filling in an online form during the nomination period.

Nominations closed on Sunday 30 June 2024.

You'll need some contact details to complete your nomination, so make sure you have these ready.

The form requires contact details for:

  • you
  • the nominee/s
  • a referee who is familiar with the achievements of the nominee.

You will need to:

  • read and agree to the Terms and Conditions
  • confirm that the nominee has agreed to be nominated
  • answer some questions about the positive impact of the nominee and why they should be recognised.

Download the Yarra Community Awards Nomination Guidelines [ PDF, 517.24 KB]

Award categories

Citizen of the Year

Must be a current Yarra resident aged 26 years and older (at 1 July 2024).

Young Citizen of the Year

Must be a current Yarra resident aged 12 to 25 years (at 1 July 2024).

Community Initiative of the Year

Presented to an initiative by a group, event, campaign or movement. Individuals are not eligible for this category.

Contributions to Sustainability

Presented to an individual or group for a program, project or activity that addresses the climate emergency or an environmental issue relevant to Yarra.

Contributions to Sport

Presented to an individual or group that encourages physical activity as part of everyday life for people of all ages and abilities.

Contributions to Arts and Culture

Presented to an individual or group that contributes to Yarra's vibrant arts and culture, including contributions to protecting and celebrating local history.

Contributions to Diversity and Inclusion

Presented to an individual or group that works to make sure all people can participate in community life, feel welcome and be connected in Yarra.