Gala Awards 2026

Awarded to a student who has demonstrated outstanding achievement across the three pillars of CareerTrackers: university, internship and community. They show what it means to grow as a future leader, thriving in their studies, contributing meaningfully in the workplace and actively engaged in their community. Their journey reflects initiative, resilience and a deep commitment to making a difference.

Awarded to a student who actively gives back to their community, this recipient embodies cultural pride, connection and responsibility. They are a role model for peers and future leaders, exemplifying the spirit of service and impact.

Celebrates students who have achieved a distinction average or higher in their university studies. This award recognises hard work, focus and resilience in academic pursuits.

Awarded jointly to an intern and their manager, this award recognises a project that delivers real impact for the business. It celebrates a manager who created a meaningful opportunity and an intern who rose to the challenge, bringing fresh thinking, hard work and lasting value to their team.

Nominated by interns, this award recognises a manager who goes above and beyond in supporting their intern(s), fostering professional growth and creating a safe and inspiring learning environment.

Presented to a partner who has taken an innovative approach to enhancing the student experience, this award acknowledges creativity, flexibility and leadership in building strong partnerships with CareerTrackers.

The Business Coordinator of the Year Award is nominated by the CareerTrackers program team and is presented to a coordinator at an employment partner who has excelled in the end-to-end delivery of the program. This Business Coordinator has a profound presence in their local network and has helped shape the program by their example of excellence and coordination.

The University Excellence Award is presented to a university that has embraced the CareerTrackers vision and collaborated to inspire excellence for all students. This university is committed to innovation and to helping us achieve best practice in the implementation of the program.

This award honours an individual who is creating meaningful opportunities for First Nations peoples within their organisation or sector. Whether in education, industry or community, the recipient is recognised for visionary leadership, courageous action and a sustained commitment to systemic change and impact.

Presented to a CareerTrackers graduate who is excelling in their chosen field and leading with purpose. They take responsibility not only for their own success, but for creating opportunities and giving back to Community. The recipient will be awarded a $15,000 no-strings-attached grant to support their continued leadership and impact.