Nominations now open
The NSW Government has launched the new NSW Local Government Training Awards, in partnership with the Fresh Start program, celebrating the excellence in training, skills and workforce development being demonstrated in councils across the state.
These awards shine a spotlight on the individuals and organisations investing in workforce capability, career development and skills growth within the NSW local government sector, as well as the dedicated new talent striving to build rewarding careers in councils.
Who can be nominated
The awards are open to apprentices, trainees or cadets working in NSW councils, including but not limited to staff appointed through the Fresh Start program.
Some categories also recognise the role of councils in workforce development, leadership, mentoring and commitment to employee development, as well as individuals who supervise and mentor early career employees.
Why nominate
Councils are encouraged to support nominations from eligible candidates who are striving for excellence in their role while building new skills through training and development.
Nominations are open from 9am Thursday 1 October 2026 to Monday 26 October 2026.
Award categories
The awards are presented across multiple streams, recognising both organisational excellence and individual achievement.
Excellence in support
The Workplace Supervisor of the Year and Mentor of the Year awards recognise individuals who make an exceptional contribution to the development, wellbeing and success of apprentices, trainees and cadets through guidance, coaching and support.
Workplace Supervisor of the Year celebrates those responsible for the day-to-day supervision, training and development of apprentices, trainees and cadets in the workplace, while the Mentor of the year celebrates individuals who provide guidance, encouragement and career development support beyond formal supervisory responsibilities, helping others build confidence and achieve their long-term goals.
The excellence in support award categories are:
- Workplace Supervisor of the Year.
- Mentor of the Year.
Council excellence
The Metropolitan Council, Regional Council and Rural Council of the Year Awards recognise councils that demonstrate excellence in workforce development, learning and innovation.
These awards celebrate councils that invest in attracting, developing and retaining talent, support apprenticeships, traineeships and cadetships, and foster a strong culture of continuous learning that delivers positive outcomes for employees, the organisation and the community.
The council excellence award categories are:
- Metropolitan Council of the Year.
- Rural Council of the Year.
- Regional Council of the Year.
Young achiever (under 21)
The Young Achiever (Under 21) award recognises an exceptional young person who has demonstrated outstanding achievement while balancing education, training and workplace responsibilities. It celebrates emerging talent, a strong work ethic, a commitment to continuous learning and the leadership potential to make a lasting contribution to the future of local government.
Individual excellence
These awards recognise outstanding female and male apprentices, trainees and cadets who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to learning, professional development and workplace performance.
The awards celebrate individuals who have embraced development opportunities, achieved positive workplace outcomes and shown initiative, professionalism and a commitment to building a successful career in local government.
The Individual excellence award categories are:
- Male Cadet of the Year.
- Female Cadet of the Year.
- Male Trainee of the Year.
- Female Trainee of the Year.
- Male Apprentice of the Year.
- Female Apprentice of the Year.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander excellence
These awards recognise outstanding female and male Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander apprentices, trainees or cadets who have demonstrated excellence in learning, workplace performance and community contribution.
They celebrate individuals who have shown leadership, resilience and a commitment to personal and professional growth while contributing to inclusive and supportive workplace environments.
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander award categories are:
- Male Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Apprentice, Trainee or Cadet of the Year.
- Female Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Apprentice, Trainee or Cadet of the Year.