Community recognition is back in focus as Auspire opens nominations for the Australian of the Year Awards, inviting the public to put forward individuals whose work is shaping lives and communities across the country.
Auspire operates as a not-for-profit organisation with a clear message around belonging and participation. With a social presence of around 3.8K followers and 289 following, it continues to build a network of engaged Australians while promoting the idea that citizenship is defined by contribution, not just status.
The awards aim to recognise people whose impact reaches beyond formal roles or professional titles. Organisers describe them as a way to highlight personal journeys, including the challenges and achievements that often sit behind community work. While the recognition is tied to a particular year, there is an emphasis on long-term contribution and ongoing influence.
Auspire’s work extends beyond the awards themselves. Its year-round programmes focus on acknowledging community members, problem solvers and individuals who inspire others to get involved. The organisation frames this through values such as respect, inclusion, mateship and the idea of a fair go, while also pointing to Australia’s diversity and its connection to the world’s oldest continuing cultures.
Leadership backing remains a visible part of the programme. Joint patrons include Chris Dawson and Mrs Darrilyn Dawson, while Roger Cook serves as Vice Patron.
The organisation is led by Chair Bradley Woods and Chief Executive Officer Morgen Lewis, who also serves as Executive Director and Board Secretary. The board includes David Hinton, Peter King, Rabia Siddique, Nick Sloan, Jeremy Chetty, Meg Coffey, Clive Bingwa, Barry Winmar, Priya Brown and Richard Ellis.
Operational delivery is supported by staff including Denyse McClements, Neha Shinghal, Charlotte Viney, Jenny Sophian and Jialu Xu.
The organisation also works with Aboriginal cultural advisors, including Danny Ford and Rosemary Walley, to support the delivery of programmes and ensure cultural awareness and understanding are reflected in its work.
Auspire’s strategy leading into 2026 focuses on encouraging active citizenship, defined as getting involved in communities and reflecting values that bring people together. This includes creating pathways through programmes and initiatives that highlight role models and strengthen connections between individuals and groups.
Its stated purpose centres on recognising Australians who contribute in practical ways, whether through local initiatives, advocacy or community support. The organisation’s vision looks towards a society where people feel a sense of belonging and are motivated to take part, while its mission focuses on building capacity and influence through engagement.
Programmes of this kind often face questions around representation and reach. While national awards can offer visibility, their impact depends on how well they reflect the diversity of experiences across the country and whether recognition translates into broader community engagement.
With nominations now open, the focus shifts to the stories that will be put forward. For Auspire, the process is designed to surface individuals who may not always be visible but whose contributions shape communities in lasting ways.
Nominate someone who contributes to harmony and cultural celebration for an Australian of the Year Award: australianoftheyear.org.au/nominate
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