Nominations are now open for the National Disability Awards.

As part of the celebrations for International Day of People with Disability (on December 3, 2011), nominations for the 2011 National Disability Awards are now open.

These prestigious annual Awards celebrate and acknowledge the achievements and contributions that individuals or groups with disability make to our community, and recognise individuals or groups within our community who have contributed to the disability sector.

The National Disability Awards have been running since 2007. Information on the 2010 recipients and finalists can be found on the Previous Recipients and Finalists page.

Nominations for the 2011 National Disability Awards opened on Wednesday 4 May 2011 and close on Friday 29 July 2011.

Nominations are open to people with disability who have achieved something remarkable or made a significant contribution to our community, and people within our community who have contributed to the disability sector.

Does someone outstanding spring to mind? Nominate them for a National Disability Award by visiting the International Day of People with Disability website or calling 1800 440 385.

The award categories are:

Minister’s Lifelong Achievement Award

The Minister’s Lifelong Achievement Award recognises people who have advanced the rights of people with disability over a prolonged period of time.

Young Disability Challenge Award

The Young Disability Challenge Award recognises young people aged 12-25 years who have advanced the rights of people with disability.

Business Award

The Business Award recognises organisations that have improved access to employment, or created increased employment opportunities for people with disability.

Local Government Award

The Local Government Award recognises work in a community that provides opportunities for full inclusion of people with disability.

Social Inclusion Award

The Social Inclusion Award recognises schools, universities, employment and training providers, and advocacy services, which have enabled equal participation of people with disability in a range of areas in life.

Inclusive and Accessible Communities Award

The Inclusive and Accessible Communities Award recognises work by developers, builders and others in the building sector to create accessible buildings or facilities for people with disability.

The Health and Wellbeing Award

The Health and Wellbeing Award recognises health and wellbeing services that are creating equal access for people with disability.

International Day of People with Disability recognises the achievements and contributions of people with disability. 

The day brings together people with disability and the general community and aims to:

• showcase the skills, abilities, contributions and achievements of people with disability
• promote a positive image of people with disability
• involve people with disability and the broader community in activities to celebrate and raise awareness of the day.