In an era where the focus is often on the challenges and failures in the fight against climate change and fostering a better society, the Banksia Foundation has consistently chosen a positive path. For 36 years, the Foundation has championed the innovators, leaders, and trailblazers working tirelessly to drive Australia towards net zero emissions.
With the launch of the 36th Banksia National Sustainability Awards, the Foundation is once again on a mission to uncover and celebrate exceptional contributions to combating climate change and building a more equitable world.
"We believe in the power of positive reinforcement," says Graz van Egmond, CEO of the Banksia Foundation. "By acknowledging and rewarding the hard work of individuals and organisations, we inspire others to join the fight and accelerate progress towards a sustainable future."
Graz van Egmond highlights the real-world impact of the Awards: "We've seen what a difference a Banksia National Sustainability Award can make. It opens doors, secures funding, fosters new partnerships, and helps winners and finalists elevate their projects to new heights."
Entering the Banksia Awards isn't just about winning—it's about recognition, receiving valuable feedback on the entry and being part of a national conversation on sustainability. All entrants will gain invaluable insights from Banksia's rigorous judging process and put their work on a national stage where it belongs.
There's a place for everyone in this year's awards, with 14 diverse categories to choose from:
- Agriculture and Primary Industries Award
- Biodiversity Award
- Built Environment and Infrastructure Award
- NEW — Business Services and Solutions Award
- Circular Economy Award (sponsored by Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre)
- Diversity and Inclusion Award (sponsored by L'Oréal Groupe)
- Energy Innovation Award
- Healthy Planet, Healthy People Award (sponsored by Bupa)
- Large Business Leadership Award (sponsored by mci)
- Marketing and Communications for Impact Award (sponsored by Currie)
- Small to Medium Business Leadership Award (sponsored by Australia Post)
- Supply Chain and Responsible Procurement Award (sponsored by Informed365)
- Technology for Impact Award
- Tourism and Destinations Award (sponsored by Tourism Australia)
And here is the icing on the cake—winners from each category will compete for the coveted Gold Banksia National Sustainability Award, a symbol of excellence in sustainability.
The 35th Banksia National Award winner Annette Brodie, CEO and Founder, explains what the win meant to Social Outfit, "I encourage people to give it a go, because if anything, even if you don't win even if you don't make it to being a finalist, that opportunity to pull all that information together to craft an application. It's such a worthwhile activity, because it instantly gives you an opportunity to reflect on your own success, which a lot of the times we don't do, cause we're just out there trying to try to make a difference in the world."
As Australia grapples with the urgent need for climate action and fostering a better society, the Banksia Foundation's approach offers a compelling story of hope, innovation, and the power of positive reinforcement in driving meaningful change.
Don't miss the chance to join Australia's sustainability champions and spread optimism across the nation. Mark your calendar for an information session on 9 October 2024, and remember, submissions close on 6 December 2024.
