Applications and nominations are open for individual leaders who are driving meaningful impact in people leadership and workplace culture.

Applicants may apply for themselves or nominate their colleagues, or any other deserving leader/s.

The application / nomination process is designed to be clear and structured, allowing applicants to highlight the measurable outcomes and strategic significance of their work.

Once submitted, all eligible applications will undergo an initial screening followed by evaluation by the awards jury.

Successful finalists will be announced ahead of the awards ceremony.

Nominators can choose to nominate more than one deserving nominees, by filling a separate form for each nominee.

Self-applicants can apply in more than 1 category, if eligible.

Those who wish to apply in more than one category may do so, by filling the forms separately for each of the applicable categories.

• Category A: 30 under 30 Award – Emerging HR Leader

To be eligible, applicants must:

• • • Be 30 years of age or below as of 31st March 2026
    • Minimum 3 years of professional experience in HR or related people functions
    • Be currently working in an HR, People, Talent, or Organisational role
    • Be based in Australia 

• Category B: 40 under 40 Award – Future HR Leader

To be eligible, applicants must:

• • • Be 40 years of age or below as of 31st March 2026 
    • Have a minimum of 8 years of total professional experience, including at least 3 years in HR or related people functions.
    • Be currently working in a mid to senior-level HR role
    • Be based in Australia

• Category C: Career Reinvention Award

To be eligible, applicants must:

• • • Have taken a career break or experienced a significant career transition and currently back in workforce
    • Be currently working in an HR, People, or related role 
    • Be based in Australia

Applications Open – 14th April 2026
Applications Close – 7th June 2026
Gala Night – To Be Announced