Awards to Recognise Excellence in Community Sector

Nominations are open for the 2015 HESTA Community Sector Awards, which recognise those making exceptional contributions to social justice in Australia.

Presented by superannuation firm HESTA in partnership with the Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS), the national Awards acknowledge excellence in service provision, advocacy and leadership in the community sector.

Awards supporter ME Bank provides a prize pool of $30,000, which is divided among the winners across three award categories — Unsung Hero, Organisation and Social Impact.

Finalists receive complimentary registration for the 2015 ACOSS National Conference, with interstate finalists flown to Sydney to attend the Awards dinner in June.

HESTA CEO Anne-Marie Corboy said those working in the community sector provided invaluable support to those experiencing poverty, disadvantage and discrimination in society.

“These Awards are an opportunity to thank these exceptional individuals and organisations for their commitment to building stronger communities,” she said.

The 2014 Award winners included:

The Unsung Hero Award

Kat Armstrong of the Women in Prison Advocacy Network (WIPAN) in New South Wales was acknowledged for her role in developing a mentoring program that supports women exiting prison. WIPAN also trains women to become mentors themselves.

Organisation Award

The Hobart Women’s Shelter was recognised for providing women experiencing homelessness or domestic violence with a safe refuge, as well as other services to empower women and their children.

Social Impact Award

Kairsty Wilson — of the Association of Employees with Disability Inc. (trading as AED Legal Centre) in Victoria — accepted the award for her role in leading an anti-discrimination wage case on behalf of workers with disabilities.

Nominations for 2015 close on 31 March 2015. Click here to nominate or find out more.