Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Social Worker of the Year
Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Social Worker of the Year Award
This award acknowledges an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Social Worker who exemplifies the best of the profession’s values, achievements and accomplishments through demonstrated practice. To be eligible, accomplishments must have taken place during the period 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025.
Who can be nominated?
Social workers engaged directly with the delivery of services to clients and who identify as, and are recognised by their community as, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Nominees must be a current financial member of the AASW and be of good standing with the AASW.
Celebrating cultural leadership in social work
When Assoc Prof Caroline Atkinson won the 2024 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Worker of the Year Award, she didn’t see it as a personal spotlight – she saw it as a way to lift up her community and the profession.
“There’s so much incredible work being done out there. I reckon we should shout it from the rooftops!”
For Caroline, the award was about more than recognition. It was about making space for cultural knowledge, honouring relational work, and inspiring the next generation of social workers.
Often the most profound work isn’t flashy or loud – it’s quiet, it’s consistent, and it’s relational work that changes lives
“If you’re thinking about nominating someone – or even nominating yourself – just do it.”
Take a moment to recognise someone whose work should be acknowledged. Then nominate them today.
Terms and conditions
Nominations will be made through a “call for nominations” announced by the AASW in August 2025.
Nominations submitted to the AASW Award Committee for consideration must not exceed 2,000 words and be supported by appropriate evidence such as letters of commendation, acknowledgement of achievements through employers or other agencies, newspaper articles or such other relevant evidence.
The Award Committee will consider nominations that meet all eligibility and requirements.
The Award Committee reserves the right to reject nominations that do not meet the requirements outlined within this document or are not received by the submission deadline.
Each award will be assessed by an Award Committee.
Nominations must be submitted through the AASW’s designated submission process.
The Award Committee will consider all nominations based on the criteria.
The written submission in this category will contribute to 100% of the overall score for consideration of this Award and will determine shortlisted Nominees.
The Award Committee reserves the right to reject nominations that either:
- Do not meet one of the criteria or;
- Exceed the specified word limit or;
- Are not received by the submission deadline.
The AASW will keep confidential their discussions and deliberations on nominees and will not provide feedback regarding their decisions.
The submission of the portfolio will contribute 100% of the overall score for consideration of this Award.
Who can nominate a nominee?
Self-nomination and third-party nominations will be considered. In the case of third-party nominations, we recommend engaging the nominee directly in the process.
Please ensure you advise the nominee that they have been nominated for an award.
Nomination closing date
Nominations must be submitted by 4:00pm AEST on Friday 26 September 2025. Nominations received after the closing date will not be further considered.
Award winners will be announced at a function on 20 November 2025 in Sydney as part of the Lyra Taylor Social Work Impact Summit.
Nominees are encouraged to attend the event but will be responsible for the purchase of their own tickets and any associated costs