Citizen of the Year

Adelaide Hills Council values the passion and commitment of its community and has for many years acknowledged this through the presentation of Citizen of the Year awards.

On behalf of the Australia Day Council of South Australia, the Council celebrates the achievements and contributions of outstanding members of our community through the Citizen of the Year Awards.

Nominated by their peers, these individuals offer remarkable service every day and are so often an unsung hero. They don’t do it for the praise or for recognition – they do it simply because it makes a difference to the people in our community.

The Council presents a number of awards at events across the region annually and on three days either side of the Australia Day public holiday on 26 January. The award categories are Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year (under 30yrs), Community Event of the Year, and Award for Active Citizenship (multiple).
 

The Citizen of the Year Awards comprise four major categories:

Citizen of the Year Award

This is presented to someone making an extraordinary contribution to the community and may recognise outstanding service over a number of years.

To be eligible, the person must be an Australian Citizen.

Young Citizen of the Year Award

This is presented to a young emerging leader who is making a real difference in their community.

To be eligible, the person must be an Australian Citizen aged over 16 years and under 30 years of age on January 26, 2026.

Community Event of the Year Award

This is presented to the person or group who has staged the most outstanding event for their community.

To be eligible, the person or group must be Australian Citizens.

Award for Active Citizenship (Civic Award)

These awards are presented to a person or group delivering (or having delivered) outstanding work on a project, initiative or event for the community during the past calendar year. They may be an unsung hero who benefits a few people or many, in small or in major ways.

The person or group need not be Australian Citizens.

Nominations closed on Sunday 16 November 2025.