The National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards - 2026

In 2026 nine award categories will spotlight outstanding achievements in conserving, protecting and interpreting NSW’s Aboriginal, built, natural and cultural heritage.

To be eligible for entry, projects must have been completed (or will be completed) between 1 April 2025 – 1 March 2026.

Organisations, councils, government agencies, community groups and passionate individuals across the state are invited to submit projects of all sizes and budgets for recognition.

Project Award Categories:

Aboriginal - For projects that seek to promote understanding, appreciation, conservation and/or awareness of Aboriginal heritage.

Architecture - For projects which are sympathetic to the heritage significance of a place or complement and utilise existing built heritage, including adaptive reuse or new work in historic contexts.

Advocacy - To recognise the commitment of a community group and/or individual who have pursued the protection and conservation of key heritage places, items or objects.

Built Conservation - For projects that relate to conservation of our built heritage including capital works and repair. Such projects may include buildings, structures or sites. Awarded to one large and one small project.

Interiors and Objects - For projects that relate to the conservation of historic interiors and objects. Movable heritage and collections may be included.

Landscape - For projects that relate to the conservation, care and promotion of our landscape heritage. This may include natural, urban and cultural landscapes.

Education and Interpretation - For projects that serve to educate about or interpret our heritage in an engaging way. This may include curriculum-based educational projects and resources, and specific interpretation projects relating to a place or item.

Events, Exhibitions and Tours - For events, exhibitions and tours which emphasise and promote education, interpretation and community engagement in heritage.

Resources and Publications - For any public facing resource or publication that promotes social, cultural, built or natural heritage. This may include books, research, websites, archaeological resources, heritage guidelines, fact sheets, field guides and heritage studies, both in print and online.

Individual Award Categories:

Lifetime Achievement - For an individual who has dedicated their career to the conservation, promotion and protection of New South Wales' heritage.

Heritage Skills - For an individual who has demonstrated the long-term application of craft skills that have been key in heritage conservation.

Young Achiever - For individuals aged 35 years and under who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to heritage excellence.