Shortstack, July 14, 2026

Environmental hero awards

Nominations are open for the 2026 Victorian Landcare Award.

This is an opportunity to recognise those making a difference for the land, water, soils, animals, plants and ecosystems being restored and protected in communities across Australia.

Nominations are free, open to self-nominations or nominations by others, and close on Friday, July 31.

For a full list of award categories, more information or to nominate: www.landcareaustralia.org.au/awards

Australian of the Year

Nominations for the 2027 Australian of the Year Awards close July 31.

You are encouraged to nominate people in their communities who are making a real difference.

The Awards rely entirely on public nominations, and it only takes one nomination for someone to be considered. Nominating is simple: explain who the person is, what they have done and why their contribution matters.

Importantly, nominators do not need to know the person they put forward personally. Many nominees are people Australians have seen, heard about, or been inspired by through their work, leadership or service. Nominators can also choose to remain anonymous.

The Australian of the Year Awards recognise outstanding Australians across four categories:
• Australian of the Year
• Senior Australian of the Year (65 years and over)
• Young Australian of the Year (16-30 years)
• Australia's Local Hero

Nominate online at australianoftheyear.org.au.

Design competition

A new annual design competition for Prep Bags is open to current preps at Victorian public schools enter by submitting hand drawn or digitally designed artwork on this year's theme 'My Year of Prep'.

The winning design will feature on the front of next year's Prep bags.
The competition runs until August 9.

Information: engage.vic.gov.au/prep-bags-2027

Sports grants

Applications are open for the next round of the Local Sports Infrastructure Fund (LSIF).

All Victorian councils and Alpine Resorts Victoria are eligible to apply in partnership with sport and recreation clubs, sport associations and leagues.

Funding up to $500,000 is on offer for projects that boost participation.
Visit www.sport.vic.gov.au

Disability sport funding

Applications are now open for the third round of the Regional All Abilities Participation Grants.

Grants of up to $25,000 are available across three categories: Equipment and Travel, Inclusion Workforce and Disability-led Initiatives.

Grants can be used to purchase equipment such as sports wheelchairs, sensory balls, throwing frames, modified bats and racquets, helping to ensure safe and inclusive participation.

For more information and to apply, visit sport.vic.gov.au/funding.