Nominations are now open for the 2026 Honour Awards, NSW’s premier LGBTQ+ community awards celebration. Community members are invited shine a light on those who have made remarkable contributions to the wellbeing and advancement of LGBTQ+ communities.
Organised by ACON, NSW’s leading LGBTQ health organisation, Honour recognises exceptional leadership, achievements and contributions to rainbow communities in NSW.
“Every day, people from all walks of life and many community groups and organisations do incredible work that improve the lives of LGBTQ+ people and their families,” says ACON CEO Michael Woodhouse. “The Honour Awards are all about celebrating outstanding community service, leadership and excellence.”
Award categories cover the health, entertainment, community, HIV business, arts, youth and community service sectors. This year, a new award will recognise volunteers and their contributions to rainbow communities.
“Honour recognises well-known achievers and also those whose contributions are less widely recognised,” said Woodhouse. “The new Volunteer Hero category celebrates the quiet, consistent work that often happens behind the scenes but is essential to community wellbeing. Volunteers are the glue that holds many of our community organisations, groups and initiatives together.”
First held in 2007, the Honour Awards have served as a platform to acknowledge individuals and organisations whose leadership and commitment have created lasting positive change for LGBTQ+ communities.
This year’s ceremony moves to the historic Paddington Town Hall on Thursday 8 October, marking a significant step toward greater community accessibility. The venue change comes alongside more affordable ticket options, ensuring that celebrating our community champions remains accessible to all who wish to participate.
The 2026 Honour Awards are proudly supported by community partners Equality Australia, Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, Twenty10, Pride Business Association, Rainbow Giving Australia and Positive Life NSW. Event partners include OUT@NBCUniversal, dplr, Universal Hotels, Star Observer, DBMedia and Adge Hotel & Residences.
“Our ability to come together and celebrate our communities’ achievements is made possible by the generous support of our partners and sponsors. We’re grateful for your support and look forward to celebrating with you all at the 2026 Honour Awards,” said Woodhouse.
Nominations for the 2026 Honour Awards are now open and close Friday 31 July. Winners will be announced at the Honour Awards Ceremony and Reception on Thursday 8 October at Paddington Town Hall, Sydney. For more information, visit: www.honourawards.com.au for details.
Image: Honour Awards (supplied)