Do you know of an ACT initiative making the community safer, more connected, and better prepared for disasters and emergencies? Now is your chance to have these efforts recognised by nominating for a 2025 ACT Resilient Australia Award.
Submissions are open in categories for business, community, government, local government, schools, mental health and wellbeing, and photography.
"This is such a great opportunity to acknowledge the vital, collaborative, and proactive efforts in the community to build a safer, more resilient Canberra - one that can withstand the impact of emergencies and recover even stronger," Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Dr Marisa Paterson said.
"As we face the growing challenges posed by climate change, it is crucial that we continue to work together to enhance our disaster resilience. These awards provide the perfect opportunity to celebrate the dedication and innovation demonstrated by Canberrans," she said.
Professor Marta Yebra, Director of the ANU Bushfire Research Centre of Excellence, was among three ACT winners of last year's Resilient Australia Awards. Her photograph, Generations in Resilience, was a powerful visual reminder of the enduring strength found in familial love and support during times of adversity.
"Disasters remind us how vulnerable we all are, but especially our elders, whose resilience is deeply tied to the support and love they receive. My photo captured a deeply personal moment, holding my father's hand during an emergency trip to Spain, uncertain if I would see him again," Professor Yebra said.
"Aging comes with many challenges, and in moments of crisis, being connected and surrounded by care can make all the difference.
"Building resilience to disasters is not just about response and recovery, it's about proactive preparation and empowering communities with the right knowledge and tools. Moments of crisis reveal the strength of our connections, and initiatives like the Resilient Australia Awards help showcase the incredible ways individuals and communities come together to support one another in adversity. That is why I love so much being part of the award ceremony."
Established in 2000, the awards recognise outstanding contributions in each state and territory across multiple sectors and disciplines. The awards endorse a wide range of initiatives, with past projects cantered around risk assessment and mitigation, planning and preparation, and response and recovery.
Winners from each state and territory are considered for the national awards. The Resilient Australia Awards is proudly sponsored by the Australian Government in partnership with states and territories and managed by the Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience.
