The Australian Higher Education Industry Association (AHEIA) is seeking nominations for outstanding professional staff who are transforming Australian higher education. Nominations are now being accepted across seven categories, celebrating the innovators, leaders, rising stars and change-makers who drive excellence in universities.
Nominations will spotlight exceptional contributions that shape the sector’s future. The awards recognise professionals who make excellence possible through groundbreaking innovation, transformative leadership and outstanding workplace culture initiatives.
The 2025 categories are:
- Leadership Excellence Award
- Lifetime Achievement Award
- Rising Star Award
- Excellence in Workplace Relations Award
- Excellence in Enterprise Bargaining Award
- Excellence in Workplace Culture Award
- Excellence in Innovation Award
Winning nominations should showcase:
- Clear, measurable achievements that demonstrate impact
- Innovative approaches to sector challenges
- Strategic alignment with university goals
- Positive contributions to the higher education landscape
All current staff and teams within Australian universities are eligible to nominate. Nominations should focus on achievements from 2024 (with the exception of Lifetime Achievement and Rising Star categories). Nominators must be currently employed at an Australian university or higher education peak body. Self-nominations are encouraged.
Key dates:
- Nominations Open: Monday 17 February 2025
- Nominations Close: Friday 14 March 2025
- Awards Presentation: Wednesday 21 May 2025 at the AHEIA Conference Dinner in Sydney
For queries about the nomination process, contact AHEIA’s Awards Team.
The AHEIA Awards Committee comprises:
- Kim Franks, Vice President People and Culture, Southern Cross University
- Martin Sainsbury, Chief People and Culture Officer, University of Newcastle
- Deborah Walker, Director, People and Culture, University of the Sunshine Coast