Nominations are now open!

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 The First Nations Eye Health Alliance (FNEHA) invites nominations for the NATSIEHC26 Awards, to be presented at the 2026 National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Eye Health Conference (NATSIEHC26). 

These six award categories recognise the individuals, organisations and allies who are making a meaningful and lasting contribution to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander eye health, through leadership, community control, advocacy, innovation and allyship. Self-nominations are welcome. There are also two special awards given by FNEHA to the sector organisations. 

The NATSIEHC26 Awards celebrate excellence grounded in self-determination, cultural strength and collective impact. We encourage nominations from across the sector, including communities, Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs), health professionals, researchers, advocates and partners. 

Nominations Close on 1st April 2026. 

 1. Lifetime Achievement Award
This award recognises an individual whose career has been defined by long-term, sustained leadership and impact in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander eye health. Nominees may have contributed over many years to policy, research, service delivery or systems reform, and demonstrated an enduring commitment to First Nations leadership and self-determination, leaving a legacy that continues to shape the sector.

2. Outstanding Leadership Award
This award celebrates exceptional leadership that has strengthened systems, inspired collaboration and advanced Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander eye health outcomes. Nominees may have demonstrated values-based leadership, influence at local, regional or national levels, and a strong commitment to partnership, accountability and cultural safety.

3. Emerging Leadership Award
This award recognises a rising leader who is making a meaningful contribution to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander eye health and shows strong potential for future leadership. Nominees may be early- to mid-career professionals, community leaders, or advocates whose work is grounded in community, culture, and innovation, and who inspire others through their commitment and vision.

4. Exceptional Contribution to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Eye Health (ACCHO) Award
This award recognises an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation that has demonstrated excellence in improving eye health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Nominees may have delivered culturally safe, community-controlled services, strengthened access or coordination of care, and demonstrated measurable impact for the community.

5. Exemplary Allyship Award
This award recognises a non-Indigenous organisation, program or individual that has demonstrated genuine, sustained and respectful allyship in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander eye health. Nominees may have shown strong commitment to First Nations leadership and decision-making, built accountable partnerships, and taken action that delivers meaningful and lasting impact.

6. Young and Deadly Award
This award celebrates a young Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person who is making a positive contribution to eye health, advocacy or community wellbeing. Nominees may be emerging leaders, students, or advocates who are using their voices to create change, support their peers, and strengthen outcomes for the community.