2026 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARDS
Nominations for 2027 Awards are now open.
Each year, South Australia celebrates the achievements and contributions of outstanding members of their communities through the Citizen of the Year Awards. These individuals demonstrate extraordinary service every day within our communities so often invisible to most of us. This contribution builds the social and cultural fabric of our society, making a significant difference to the people of our state. The Citizen of the Year Awards program is proudly conducted by the Australia Day Council of South Australia in partnership with 68 Councils across our state. The Citizen of the Year Awards provide everyone with the opportunity to recognise any community member who makes them proud.
The Citizen of the Year Awards, Young Citizen of the Year Award, Community Event of the Year Award and Award for Active Citizenship are presented annually to local citizens and community organisations who have made outstanding contributions to the South Australian community. The Awards are provided by the Australia Day Council of South Australia (ADCSA) and are administered by Local Government Authorities throughout the State on behalf of the Council.
Proudly sponsored by:
South Australian Citizen of the Year 2026 Recipients
Citizen of the Year 2026 – Recipient
Andrew Plastow (City of Charles Sturt)
Head of College and a proud Kamilaroi man Andrew Plastow is reshaping education for Aboriginal and disempowered children and families, challenging conventional schooling to prioritise equity, cultural connection and community. Through the leadership and establishment of Ngutu College, he has redefined schooling by centering equity, culture and community; influencing education reform nationally.
The College supports more than 300 students, with 51% Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander enrolments, with a learning environment where every child, young person and family can belong, thrive and be heard. Initiatives that provide career pathways for young people while fostering cultural connection and strengthening community engagement are demonstrated through the Ngani Cafe and the success of the Aboriginal Educators Program.
Young Citizen of the Year 2026 – Recipient
Ishaan Chaudhuri (City of Norwood, Payneham and St Peters)
At just 16 and in his first year of medical school, made a remarkable community impact – advancing rural Indigenous healthcare access, tutoring disadvantaged students, holding national and community leadership roles, and raising thousands for childhood cancer and rural health initiatives.
Ishaan volunteers with St John Ambulance SA and serves as National Secretary of the Australian Medical Students’ Association. His leadership reflects maturity, discipline and strong civic responsibility and a passion for equity in education and health.
Award for Active Citizenship 2025 – Recipient
David Richardson (Mount Barker District Council)
David Richardson plays a central role in strengthening community life in Nairne. An active member of the Country Fire Service brigade, he contributes locally and supports incident management at regional and state levels.
As President of the Nairne District Residents Association, he fosters collaboration across volunteer groups through Network 5252 and helps deliver major events including the Nairne Twilight Markets, History Monthand Carols. David serves on the Nairne Netball Club and Oval Committees and assists on the Nairne Soldiers Memorial Hall Committee. His sustained volunteer leadership continues to build resilience and shared passion for his community.
Award for Active Citizenship 2026 – Commendations
The Laura Nature Playground Committee (Northern Areas Council)
The Laura Nature Playground Committee has delivered a project that will benefit the community for generations.
Through consultation, grant funding and hands-on volunteer effort, leadership and teamwork the committee transformed a local vision into a major community asset.
The safe, inclusive, nature-inspired playground strengthens family connection, supports children’s wellbeing and enhances local pride, reflecting strong collaboration and long-term community commitment.
Lyne Harrison (Light Regional Council)
Lyne is a dedicated volunteer at the Light Country Community Centre’s food and relief service, supporting people in need.
She coordinates food pickups from surrounding towns, organises supplies, and manages clients to ensure everyone receives assistance.
Her reliability and compassion embody the true spirit of community service.
Community Event of the Year 2026 – Recipient
The Gawler Show (Town of Gawler)
The Gawler Show continues to deliver significant social, cultural, and economic value, attracting more than 25,000 visitors in 2025. With over 3,800 competition entries, the event celebrates more than 170 years of agricultural and creative heritage.
South Australia’s largest regional show includes the Young Farmers Challenge and Rural Ambassador initiative supporting youth leadership and agricultural sector development. Backed by almost 200 volunteers, the Show remains a defining regional event in South Australia that connects community across the region.
Community Event of the Year 2026 – Commendation
Victor Harbor Half Marathon, (City of Victor Harbor).
Since 2022, the Victor Harbor Half Marathon has grown from 700 to 4,000 participants, delivering measurable economic, community connection and benefit to the Fleurieu Peninsula region.
The inclusive event welcomes elite runners, beginners and families, with volunteers from local sporting clubs and community groups across race weekend, supporting local tourism and hospitality. The addition of a Health and Wellness Expo further strengthened the focus on wellbeing and active lifestyles.