Vice-Chancellor's Awards

The Vice-Chancellor's Awards celebrate and recognise exceptional performance by staff who demonstrate outstanding achievement in areas aligned with the University’s vision and strategic goals.

Vice-Chancellor's Awards 2026

The Vice-Chancellor's Awards will be held later in 2026 to better align with the academic calendar and provide an opportunity to celebrate and recognise our people at the end of the year.

We are currently reviewing and enhancing the Awards program, working in close collaboration with relevant areas across the University to ensure the Awards continue to meaningfully recognise the outstanding contributions of our staff.

Further information, including timing, nomination details and award categories, will be shared as soon as possible.

If you have any questions in the meantime, please contact vc-awards@uow.edu.au.

• Outstanding Contribution to Teaching and Learning
• Excellence in Research Awards
• Global Strategy Award
• Outstanding Service for Professional Staff
• Excellence in Community Engagement
• Marie Lewis Award
• Rosemary Cooper Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Award
• The Kristy Adams Award for Excellence in Health and Safety
• Indigenous Advancement Award
• Recognition of Service Award

The staff-access only Vice-Chancellor's Award Guideline (PDF) provides an overview of each of the award categories, nomination and committee selection process. Specific award criteria, nomination forms and relevant dates are available via the links above.

• Vice-Chancellor's Awards recipients list

As part of the University of Wollongong's (UOW) 50th Anniversary celebrations, we look back to the beginning of this tradition. UOW held its inaugural ‘Presentation of Staff Awards’ ceremony in June 1998. Prior to this, staff awards were presented during University Day events, each accompanied by a program booklet. In 2000, the ceremony was renamed the ‘Vice-Chancellor’s Staff Awards,’ and by 2002, it became officially known as the ‘Vice-Chancellor's Awards’. This evolution highlights the University’s ongoing commitment to recognising and celebrating the outstanding contributions of its staff throughout its history.

In keeping with the University’s values, the awards uphold a culture of strong performance expectations, the recognition of initiative and enterprise, and a commitment to appreciating staff for their invaluable contributions.

As we reflect on 50 years of innovation and growth, the Vice-Chancellor’s Awards continue to honour those who go above and beyond to help UOW thrive.

If you would like more information on the Vice-Chancellor's Awards, please contact vc-awards@uow.edu.au