Parks & Leisure Australia Awards of Excellence

Open to PLA members

Are you a PLA Member?

These Awards celebrate the people and places in your industry, the outstanding initiatives, innovative projects, and dedicated professionals who make a meaningful impact across our parks, leisure and recreation. They recognise excellence across a range of categories, highlighting the leadership, creativity and commitment that strengthen our communities.

Whether you are part of a local government, Consultant, community group or industry partnership, I encourage you to submit a nomination. Sharing your achievements not only recognises your team’s hard work but also contributes to raising standards and inspiring best practice across our sector.

Award categories, criteria and submission details are below and available via the Awards page.

Awards Categories

Explore the possibilities within our 12 award categories available for your submissions. Prior to submitting your application, we encourage you to review the criteria for each award. It’s worth noting that your project may qualify for multiple awards, so be sure to consider all applicable categories when preparing your submission. Your achievements deserve recognition – find the perfect category to showcase your success!

• Frank Stewart Distinguished Service Award (National Only)
• David Aldous Emerging Leader of the Year
• Community Based Initiative of the Year
• Environment and Sustainability Initiative
• Strategic Planning
• Community Facility of the Year
• Park of the Year Award
• Playspace (<$1M)
• Playspace (>$1M)
• Regional Industry Initiative
• Research Impact
• Innovation in Parks, Sport and Recreation

View Award Criteria here

 The PLA strongly encourage you to review the guidelines and key dates and consider putting forward an application.

This is your chance to showcase the innovation and excellence happening within our region.

Learn more here:  https://parksleisure.com.au/2026-national-awards-of-excellence/