The finalists for the 2026 National NAIDOC Awards have been announced, marking the beginning of NAIDOC Week scheduled to run from July 5 to 12. This year’s theme, “50 Years of Deadly,” acknowledges the enduring contributions of First Nations elders, organisers, artists, and communities who have sustained the NAIDOC movement over five decades.
The Lifetime Achievement Award for 2026 has been posthumously awarded to Rhoda Roberts AO, recognising her significant leadership and lasting influence on Australia’s arts and cultural scene.
Aunty Lynette Riley, co-chair of the National NAIDOC Committee, highlighted the importance of the nominees, stating that their achievements illustrate the strength, diversity, and excellence of Indigenous peoples across the nation. The committee reviewed hundreds of nominations before selecting finalists across ten award categories.
The finalists for Person of the Year are Aunty Pat Turner AO, Dr Lana Leslie-Henfling OAM, and Timmy Dugan OAM. The Female Elder Award contenders include Aunty Lorraine Peeters, Christine Corby AM, and Regina Pilawuk Wilson, while nominees for Male Elder are Dr Dean Yibarbuk, Oscar Colbung, and Dr Stephen Hagan.
In the category of Sportsperson Award, Alex Wilson, Caitlyn Costello, and Mariah Williams have been named finalists. The Youth Award nominees are Brenton Woods, Levi Briggs, and Tyson Neal Edwards.
The Caring for Country and Culture Award finalists represent Girringun Aboriginal Corporation, Miroma Aboriginal Language and Technology Centre, and Southern Aboriginal Corporation. For the Education Award, nominees include Aunty Stephanie Armstrong, Ninti Training Ltd, and The Aboriginal & Islander Independent Community School (The Murri School).
Creative Talent Award finalists are Jodie Welsh, Kaylene Whiskey, and Molly Hunt. The Innovation Award finalists include 17xI6CDP Youth Collective, Bars Behind Me, and the Young Indigenous Women’s STEM Academy.
The winners of these awards will be revealed at the National NAIDOC Awards ceremony, set to take place on August 15 in Mpantwe (Alice Springs).
Australian Indigenous Australians Minister and Senator Malarndirri McCarthy praised the finalists, underscoring the theme’s significance as a milestone in recognising the history and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Steven Satour, also co-chair of the National NAIDOC Committee, said the finalists embody the best qualities of Indigenous communities and the continuing legacy of NAIDOC for over fifty years.
Throughout NAIDOC Week, a variety of local events and activities will be held nationwide to celebrate Indigenous achievements and culture. Further details about the 2026 NAIDOC Awards finalists and how to participate in the celebrations are available on the official NAIDOC website.