Twenty outstanding Australians and organisations have been named finalists in the 2026 Australian Human Rights Awards.

Run by the Australian Human Rights Commission, these annual awards recognise the extraordinary contribution to Australian society of a wide variety of people and organisations committed to issues of human rights, social justice and equality.

Chosen from more than 300 nominations, this year’s finalists are making a real difference in communities across Australia. Their work includes improving healthcare, supporting refugees, expanding access to education, advocating for law reform and helping young people thrive.

I’m thrilled that CARAD (Centre for Asylum Seekers Refugees and Detainees WA) has been named a finalist in the Human Rights Medal category. CARAD is a not-for-profit organisation enabling refugees and people seeking asylum to live with dignity. It provides essential needs, advocacy and welfare support services to people seeking humanitarian protection in Western Australia. I have been on the board of CARAD for nearly ten years and can attest to their valuable support to vulnerable people.

The winners will be announced at a special ceremony to coincide with International Human Rights Day on Thursday 10 December in Sydney. I think everyone who has been nominated is a winner. Find out more about the awards and the finalists here.