With one month remaining before nominations close, Landcare Australia is encouraging communities across the country to recognise the individuals and groups quietly working to protect local landscapes, waterways and natural environments.
The 2026 State and Territory Landcare Awards are open for nominations until 31 July, with organisers calling on Australians to put forward people whose efforts often go unnoticed despite years of service to their communities.
Eligible nominees include farmers improving soil health and biodiversity, volunteers restoring bushland and waterways, Coastcare, Bushcare and Rivercare groups, Traditional Owners and First Nations organisations caring for Country, teachers leading environmental education projects, and young people driving local conservation initiatives.
The awards aim to acknowledge practical work taking place in paddocks, parks, coastlines, schools, reserves and community spaces across Australia. While many nominees work on environmental projects, the awards also recognise contributions that strengthen local communities through land and water stewardship.
Landcare Australia Chief Executive Officer Dr Shane Norrish said many of those making a difference rarely seek public recognition.
“Every community has people who turn up, get their hands dirty and keep going because they care deeply about the environment around them. All it takes is one nomination for someone to be recognised for their efforts,” he said.
“A Landcare Award can help elevate people’s voices, strengthen their mission and open doors to new opportunities. Nominating is quick, free and incredibly impactful.”
Anyone can submit a nomination, whether for themselves, another individual or a community group. Winners of the state and territory awards will progress to the 2027 National Landcare Awards, although organisers say the awards are equally intended to acknowledge local contributions and inspire continued community participation.
The awards cover a broad range of categories, including sustainable agriculture, landcare innovation, community partnerships, Coastcare, First Nations collaboration, women in landcare, junior landcare and emerging environmental leaders.
Previous recipients have reflected the diversity of conservation work taking place across the country. Among the 2024 state and territory winners were Tasmania’s Leap Farm for sustainable agriculture, Western Australia’s Dampier Peninsula Fire Working Group for community partnerships, South Australia’s Nipapanha Community Aboriginal Corporation for First Nations land management, and Victoria’s Bryce Watts-Parker, recognised for his work supporting environmental recovery and community engagement following bushfires in Far East Victoria.
Landcare Australia says a nomination can help acknowledge years of dedication while raising awareness of projects that improve environmental outcomes and encourage others to become involved.
Nominations for the 2026 State and Territory Landcare Awards close on Friday, 31 July.
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