Victorian Minister for Ageing, Ingrid Stitt, has today opened nominations for the 2026 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards.
Victorians are encouraged to nominate seniors who are making a real difference in their communities.
“Older Victorians play a vital role in keeping our communities strong, safe and inclusive – these awards recognise the difference they make every day,” said Minister Stitt.
“If you know a senior Victorian who goes above and beyond for their community, now is the time to nominate them so we can celebrate their contributions.”
Last year’s Victorian Senior of the Year, Patrick Templeton, was honoured for his work supporting disadvantaged young people through community outreach programs.
Other recipients were recognised for backing road safety programs, strengthening social cohesion and spreading awareness about reconciliation and sustainability.
There are six categories of awards in 2026, including:
- The Premier’s Award for Victorian Senior of the Year for outstanding and lasting contributions
- The Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria Senior Achiever Award for local community champions
- The Emerging Impact Award recognising new volunteers that are already making an impact
- The Positive Ageing Award for promoting positive and active ageing
- The Promotion of Multiculturalism Award for advancing cultural diversity
- The Veteran Community Award for service to the veteran community.
The awards will be presented in October as part of the annual Victorian Seniors Festival.
Nominations are now open and close on 19 May.
To find out more and nominate an older Victorian making a real difference, visit seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/awards.
