Nominations for the 2026 Prime Minister’s National Veteran Employment Awards are closing 31 July.
The Awards provide national recognition for veterans, partners and employers who demonstrate leadership, commitment and impact in supporting civilian employment outcomes.
The 2026 theme, Success beyond service, celebrates the achievements of veterans and partners in the workplace. The theme highlights how skills developed through Defence service such as leadership, teamwork, discipline and adaptability support success in civilian employment and entrepreneurship. These skills enable veterans and partners to contribute across a wide range of industries and roles. The Awards also highlight the employers and organisations who recognise, value and support veteran and partner employment. Hear from 2025 winners and finalists about what ‘Success beyond service’ means to them by watching this short video.
Why nominate?
Submitting a nomination is a chance to:
- recognise veterans and partners whose employment achievements deserve national recognition
- showcase effective recruitment, retention and workplace practices
- highlight the value of defence skills in civilian industries
- contribute to a stronger and more connected veteran employment community.
Past award recipients have demonstrated the positive impact that inclusive employment can have on individuals, workplaces and communities. The 2026 awards build on these successes and aim to continue elevating best practice across Australia.
Award categories
The Awards include a range of categories recognising:
- veterans and partners in civilian employment
- employers demonstrating leadership in veteran and partner recruitment and retention
- initiatives that create supportive workplaces.
Full category details, eligibility criteria and guidance on submitting a strong nomination are available on the Awards website.
How to nominate
Nominations are open to individuals and organisations, including veterans, partners, colleagues, employers and organisations across the public and private sectors. You may nominate someone else or submit a self-nomination by visiting the Awards website.
Together, we can recognise Success beyond service by valuing the contributions of veterans and partners that strengthen Australian workplaces. Recognise outstanding achievements in veteran and partner employment across Australia by submitting a nomination today: https://www.veteransemployment.gov.au/awards
