Disability Confidence Awards 2026

Introduction

The Australian Disability Network Disability Confidence Awards celebrate the organisations and individuals driving disability inclusion across Australian workplaces and communities. In 2026, we have expanded the program with new categories, separate recognition for small to medium enterprises and large organisations, and a more accessible nomination process.

Nominations are open from 1 June to 14 August 2026, with finalists announced on 19 September 2026. Award recipients will be announced at the awards dinner on Tuesday 20 October 2026 at The Sofitel, Melbourne.

Partner with us

Nights like this don’t happen without our members behind them. Being part of it, at any level, does two things at once: it helps shift Australia towards a more inclusive place to work and live, and it’s a genuinely good night. There’s a way in for every organisation, whether that’s nominating someone doing great work, sponsoring a finalist to attend, or partnering with us.

2026 Disability Confidence Awards Partnership Prospectus – accessible word doc

Purchase tickets

This year’s awards are bigger than ever, with expanded categories and dedicated recognition for both small to medium enterprises and large organisations, ensuring every kind of impact gets its moment in the spotlight. Set against the elegance of The Sofitel, Melbourne, on Tuesday 20 October 2026, this gala dinner will bring together changemakers from across the community to celebrate the initiatives and people driving genuine, lasting change. Secure your tickets now to be part of this special evening.

Purchase tickets here

How to nominate

Nominations are now closed for the 2026 Disability Confidence Awards.

Key dates

• Nominations open: 1 June 2026
• Nominations close: 21 August 2026 (extended)
• Finalists announced: 19 September 2026
• Awards dinner: Tuesday 20 October 2026, The Sofitel, Melbourne

2026 Award Categories

• Inclusive Marketing & Communications Award New for 2026!
• Digital Accessibility Progress Award New for 2026!
• Inclusive Event and Space Design Award New for 2026!
• Intern of the Year
• Supervisor of the Year
• Mentee of the Year
• Mentor of the Year
• Workforce Inclusion Initiative of the Year (SME and large org)
• Customer Inclusion Initiative of the Year (SME and large org)
• DEN/ERG of the Year (SME and large org)
• Emerging/Next Generation Leader Award New for 2026!
• Disability Inclusion Changemaker of the Year