Help celebrate the incredible young people of the Central Coast by nominating someone for Central Coast Council’s 2026 Youth Week Awards!
Central Coast Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith encourages nominations so Council can honour local youth for their efforts.
“These annual awards recognise outstanding contributions made by youth aged 12 to 24 across a wide range of areas – including the arts, sports, culture, social services, education, business, entrepreneurship, volunteering, and community building.
“Whether they’re inspiring others, driving change or making a difference behind the scenes, now is the time to nominate a young person who deserves to be acknowledged and celebrated.”
Nominations are now open until 5pm, Sunday 1 March 2026 online at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au
Award categories
- Arts and Entertainment Award
- Community Service and Activity Award
- Environment and Ethical Sustainability Award
- First Nations Cultural Award
- Social Impact in Education / Community Award
- Youth Sportsperson Award
- Youth Entrepreneur Award
- Youth Leadership (Individual) Award
- Youth Leadership (Group) Award
- Youth Volunteer Award
- Nominator Award
Central Coast Council Mayor, Lawrie McKinna said these awards provide an opportunity to spotlight some of the positive ways that youth on the Central Coast contribute to our region.
“These Youth Week Awards reflect our Youth Strategy and the priorities in the Community Strategic Plan, helping young people feel empowered, supported and celebrated,” Mayor McKinna said.
“Let’s come together to recognise their achievements and thank them for the positive impact they’re making in our region. Jump on Council’s website to nominate a young person making a difference.”
The winners will be announced at a special celebration during Youth Week on 16 April 2026. Read about last year’s Youth Week winners
Expressions of interest are also open for local young people to join Council’s youth leadership program ‘Youth-for-Youth’ (Y4Y) Action Team. Submit interest online by 15 December.
For more information, search ‘Youth Week Awards 2026’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au