2026 ACT Women’s Awards Winners Announced

CANBERRA, Australia — The winners of the 2026 ACT Women’s Awards have been announced, recognising women and gender-diverse people whose contributions are making a positive difference locally, nationally and globally.

The annual awards celebrate leadership, achievement and advocacy across a range of sectors and highlight individuals who are helping drive social, economic and community change in the Australian Capital Territory.

This year’s winners include:

⭐ Excellence in Industry Award — Ashlee Berry

Ashlee Berry, ACT & Capital Region Executive Director of the Property Council of Australia, has received the Excellence in Industry Award.

She was recognised for her leadership and advocacy within the property industry and her contribution to advancing the sector across the ACT and Capital Region.

⭐ Minister’s Impact Award — Katherine Berney

Katherine Berney, Director of Prevention of Gendered Violence at the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education, has been named the recipient of the Minister’s Impact Award.

Berney has played an important role in policy development, prevention initiatives and systems reform aimed at addressing gender-based violence.

⭐ Lifetime Achievement Award — Dr Sujatha Shanmugasundaram

Dr Sujatha Shanmugasundaram, a nursing lecturer with more than 35 years of professional experience, has received the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Her career has included significant contributions to nursing education, dementia care and aged-care practice, reflecting a longstanding commitment to improving health and care services.

⭐ Gender Equity and Social Change Award — Robyn Smith

Robyn Smith, Programs and Advocacy Manager at Inherited Cancers Australia, has been recognised with the Gender Equity and Social Change Award.

She has contributed to social change through education, research and advocacy supporting people living with inherited cancer risk.

The 2026 ACT Women’s Awards highlight the diverse ways women and gender-diverse people are contributing to their communities and creating lasting change across the ACT and beyond.

Read More stories: https://www.act.gov.au/…/celebrating-the-2026-act…

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