Entries are officially open for the 2026 Community Broadcasting Awards, celebrating the outstanding achievements of stations, programs and individuals across Australia’s community broadcasting sector.
From innovative programming and strong community engagement to technical excellence and leadership, the Awards recognise the work that keeps community radio thriving, diverse and connected to audiences nationwide.
Nominations are now open and will close at 11.59pm AEST on Monday 22 June 2026. Winners will be announced at the Gala Dinner and Awards Night at the 2026 CBAA Conference, taking place in Geelong from 22-24 October
What’s new in 2026
Updated presenter criteria
The criteria for both Outstanding Presenter and Outstanding Presenter: News & Current Affairs have been revised to better capture what makes a great presenter today.
The updated criteria emphasise:
For news and current affairs presenters, there is a renewed focus on professionalism, integrity, and a strong understanding of current issues, reflecting the important role community broadcasters play in delivering trusted information.
Small Station of the Year returns
Recognising the vital role of smaller stations, and due to popular demand, the Small Station of the Year category has returned!
This award celebrates stations operating with limited resources, acknowledging their creativity, resilience and impact. It highlights how smaller stations:
Stations with annual revenue under $120,000 are eligible to enter.
Fundraising and Sponsorship now recognised separately
In response to sector feedback, Excellence in Fundraising and Sponsorship are now recognised as two distinct award categories.
While both are essential for station sustainability, they represent very different activities:
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The Award for Excellence in Fundraising focuses on community-driven initiatives such as radiothons, membership drives and appeals
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The Award for Excellence in Sponsorship recognises the development of strategic partnerships and revenue growth through sponsors
Separating these categories ensures each area receives the recognition it deserves and allows stations to showcase their strengths more clearly.
Before you enter
Entries are submitted via the online Awards platform Awards Force, available via the Awards page. Before submitting, make sure you:
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Address the category criteria clearly
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Include all required audio and supporting materials
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Obtain approval from your Station Manager or President
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Submit before the closing date
Only one entry per category per station is permitted, so be sure to coordinate internally and select your strongest submission.
Celebrate your impact
The Community Broadcasting Awards are an opportunity to showcase the incredible work happening across the sector, from major metropolitan stations to small, volunteer-run services.
If you’ve delivered something you’re proud of this year, whether on air, behind the scenes or in your community, now is the time to share it.
Also, remember that, when registering for the 2026 CBAA Conference, you must purchase a separate ticket to the Gala Dinner and Awards night if you want to attend the Awards.
If you have any questions about the awards please get in touch with us via [email protected]. Start your entry today and help highlight the impact of community broadcasting in 2026!