Release type: Media Release

Date:

Celebrate the best of VET by nominating now for 2026 Australian Training Awards

Ministers:

The Hon Andrew Giles MP
Minister for Skills and Training

Australia’s vocational education and training (VET) sector will celebrate the best of the best this November, with stories from across the sector highlighted at the 2026 Australian Training Awards (ATAs), the peak national training awards.

Nominations are now open for the ATAs, which in its 33rd year continues to play an important role in recognising excellence in VET among trainers, educators, students, trainees and apprentices. 

Nominees and winners receive national recognition for the contributions they make in their communities, and have the opportunity to join the Australian VET Alumni, a passionate group of VET advocates who share their stories to inspire other Australians.

Last year Tasmanian educator Stella Quintero Sanchez from MAX Solutions won the Excellence in Language, Literacy and Numeracy Practice Award for empowering learners through innovative and inclusive educational practices. 

Stella’s teaching philosophy centred on ensuring every student could access digital resources and opportunities, with many of her students overcoming educational disadvantages to complete their first qualifications.

Her story is one of dozens shared as part of the ATAs, highlighting the level of excellence across the country in the VET sector and how important people are to delivering the skills Australians need for their future.


The 2026 Australian Training Awards will feature 16 national award categories, recognising excellence through state and territory training awards programs and national direct entry award categories.

Direct entry award categories provide a pathway for individuals, employers and training organisations to be nominated directly for national recognition.

Nominations are open for the following five direct entry categories:

Nominations close on Wednesday 3 June 2026.

Finalists from the direct entry award categories and state and territory award programs will be recognised at the ATAs Gala Night on Friday 20 November in Sydney, where more inspirational stories will be told and celebrated.

For more information or to nominate someone, visit the Australian Training Awards website.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Skills and Training, Andrew Giles:

“The Australian Training Awards celebrates the students, apprentices, employers, trainers and RTOs whose commitment to skills and training supports Australia’s workforce now and into the future.

“Every year, the awards highlight how high-quality training supports people into secure, meaningful work, helps businesses grow, innovate and adapt, and strengthens Australia’s productivity and economic resilience.

“I encourage Australians to nominate the individuals, employers and organisations in their lives making a real difference through skills and training, to help us showcase the best of Australia’s VET sector.”

Photos and case studies available on request from every state and territory.