Thirty-one women and girls from across New South Wales have been named finalists in the 2026 NSW Women of the Year Awards, recognising leadership, resilience and service across communities, professions and age groups.
Now in its 14th year, the awards highlight individuals whose work is improving lives and strengthening communities across the state. Winners in five categories will be announced at a ceremony at the International Convention Centre in Sydney on Thursday 5 March, the centrepiece of NSW Women’s Week 2026, which runs from 2 March through to International Women’s Day on 8 March.
Premier Chris Minns said the finalists reflected the breadth of contribution being made by women and girls across the state.
“Every finalist represents the strength and diversity that defines New South Wales,” he said. “These women are changing the lives of those around them—not for recognition, but because they believe in lifting up their communities.
“I congratulate all of the finalists and commend them for going above and beyond in their respective fields.”
The finalists span metropolitan, regional and rural New South Wales, with nominees drawn from health, education, business, community services, culture and advocacy.
The NSW Premier’s Woman of Excellence finalists are Professor Tracey O’Brien AM from Lane Cove LGA and Clare Pearson from The Hills Shire LGA.
In the NSW Aboriginal Woman of the Year category, the finalists are Dr Aunty Rhonda Radley of Port Macquarie–Hastings LGA, Adjunct Professor Nicole Turner of Port Stephens LGA, and Sharon Winsor from Mid-Western Regional LGA.
The NSW Community Hero category includes Carolyn Campbell-McLean from Parramatta LGA and Ruby Riethmuller from Northern Beaches LGA, alongside the Gidget Foundation Australia Founders Group, comprising Alexandra Berthold, Libby Bowditch, Jacqui Cotton, Stephanie Hughes, Lou Hunter, Kim Mouret, Simone Short, and founders based across Ku-ring-gai, Northern Beaches, Waverley, North Sydney and Mosman local government areas.
Regional leadership is recognised through the NSW Regional Woman of the Year finalists: Jo Marshall from Upper Lachlan Shire LGA, Amy Riddle from Coffs Harbour City LGA, and Jenny Worrell from Clarence Valley LGA.
The NSW Young Woman of the Year finalists, aged 16 to 30, are Miranda McGufficke of Snowy Monaro Regional LGA, Layne Paull of Central Coast LGA, Milli Weaver of Randwick City LGA, and Dr Mithila Zaheen from Cumberland LGA.
Ten girls aged between seven and 15 have been named in The Ones to Watch category, recognising early leadership and community contribution. They are Imali Bamji from Hunters Hill LGA, Piper Clarke from Shoalhaven LGA, Hafsa Faizan from Liverpool LGA, Emma Hoskins from Blacktown LGA, Amalia Carolyn Howard from Dubbo LGA, Elly Ings from Northern Beaches LGA, Hannah Orr from Goulburn Mulwaree LGA, Ruvi Pooliyadde from Blacktown LGA, Shanvi Govinda Raju from Penrith LGA, and Ivy Walker from Hornsby LGA.
Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said the breadth of nominations reflected the depth of contribution being made across the state.
“Women and girls across New South Wales are making a difference right across our state and these awards recognise their invaluable contributions,” she said. “This year we receive an incredible number of nominations, every one of them showcasing a story of grit, compassion and remarkable achievement.
“Our 2026 finalists come from all corners of New South Wales and their work spans health, community services, business, culture, education and advocacy. Their contribution enriches our communities and sets an example for girls and women everywhere.”
The awards ceremony will be livestreamed, allowing communities across the state to take part in celebrating the finalists during NSW Women’s Week.
Maria Irene is India Correspondent for The Indian Sun, reporting on technology, finance, culture, and diaspora stories across India and Australia, with a special focus on initiatives led by the Australian High Commission and its Consulates across India
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