Chance to acknowledge young people sparking positive change

IF you know an exceptional young Ballarat resident who is working to make the city an even better place to live, now is the time to see them recognised.

The 2026 City of Ballarat Youth Awards nominations are now open, providing an opportunity to celebrate the outstanding efforts and contributions of local people between the ages of 12 and 25.

Held annually since 2005, the awards aim to shine a light on the achievements of the youths of Ballarat and the positive impacts that they have, with this year’s theme, Making Ripples, Making Waves, highlighting how even small actions can help create big changes.

“If you know a young person who is inspiring positivity through their hobbies, sport, volunteering, leadership or other interests, I encourage you to nominate them and help celebrate their contribution,” City of Ballarat mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves said.

An awards ceremony will be held on Friday 14 August at the Wendouree Centre for Performing Arts, with all nominees invited to attend.

Nominations are open across twelve categories, including the Positive Leader Award, Young Creative Award, Youth Volunteer Award, and Personal Growth Award, and are open up until Sunday 21 June at 11.59pm with more details through the City of Ballarat Youth Awards page.