Nominations open for Crown land management awards

Crown land manager boards and councils that have delivered exceptional results for their local communities over the last 12 months, are encouraged to nominate for this year’s Awards.

Crown land managers play a vital role in maintaining and enhancing thousands of public reserves, to ensure these shared spaces remain accessible, well–managed and preserved for current and future generations.

From parks, playgrounds and sportsgrounds to natural reserves, cultural sites and community facilities such as halls and showgrounds, Crown reserves support a wide range of recreational, environmental and social uses. Crown land managers are responsible for balancing community access with environmental sustainability and the protection of cultural heritage.

Crown Lands within the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, in partnership with Awards Australia, is again supporting two categories in the 2026 Community Achievement Awards for NSW and the ACT:

• Crown Land Management Excellence Award – recognises a volunteer Crown land manager board that has demonstrated exceptional dedication in enhancing a Crown reserve for their community.
• Council Crown Land Management Excellence Award – recognises a council that has delivered meaningful improvements to Crown land for public benefit.

Further information, including eligibility and nomination guidelines, is available at NSW/ACT Community Achievement Awards.

Nominations close on 12 August. Winners will be announced at the Community Achievement Awards gala presentation in Sydney on 14 November 2026.

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:

“Across NSW, volunteers and local councils contribute to the care and management of Crown land, ensuring these spaces remain open and welcoming for the community.

"The commitment shown by Crown land managers helps protect important environmental and cultural assets while supporting community wellbeing and local economies.

"These awards shine a spotlight on the dedication of Crown land managers and provide a valuable opportunity to recognise the difference they make in communities right across the state."