Sydney LGBTQIA+ Leaders Named 2026 Honour Awards Finalists
The finalists for the 2026 Honour Awards have been announced, recognising people and organisations supporting LGBTQIA+ communities across New South Wales. Now in its 19th year, the annual program is produced by ACON and celebrates leadership, service and achievement across the rainbow community. This year’s finalists were selected from more than 150 nominations spanning health, HIV advocacy, business, arts, entertainment, youth and community services. ACON chief executive Michael Woodhouse said the nominations reflected the breadth and diversity of work improving the lives of LGBTQ+ people and their loved ones, including contributions that are often made outside the spotlight. Sydney-linked finalists include Joyce Maynge, nominated for 25 years of fundraising, literacy promotion and drag-based support for community connection and HIV initiatives. The Sydney Stingers Water Polo Club is a Community Organisation finalist for providing an inclusive sporting home for LGBTQIA+ people for 25 years. Other nominees include Inner City Legal Centre’s Katie Green, Rainbow Families Australia advocate Ashley Scott, and the HIV/AIDS Legal Centre. The awards also highlight work beyond central Sydney and across NSW, including support for queer Pacific Islander communities in Western Sydney, inclusive community radio spaces in Western Sydney, regional Pride activity, services for asylum seekers and refugees, and advocacy for trans and gender-diverse people. Winners will be announced at a ceremony and reception at Paddington Town Hall in Sydney on Thursday, 8 October. The event will bring together finalists, community leaders, friends and supporters. For Sydney, the finalists show the range of local organisations and individuals building inclusion through sport, legal services, health, culture and community connection. The awards also make visible work supporting LGBTQIA+ residents across the city and wider NSW.
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