Territorians are being called on to celebrate the power of everyday kindness, as the Australia Day Council NT celebrates 40 years of recognising real Territorian community impact.

‘Celebrating Good’ shines a spotlight on ordinary people doing extraordinary things across the Northern Territory – highlighting that anyone, anywhere, can make a difference.

As part of the campaign, 2026 Young Australian of the Year Nedd Brockmann will visit the Northern Territory on Wednesday May 13 to headline a free, family friendly ‘Run for Good’ event at the Darwin Waterfront.

The event will feature a 1km fun run, community picnic, and a live panel discussion with Nedd Brockmann and Northern Territory Australian of the Year alumni, exploring what it means to “do good” in today’s world.

For four decades, the Australia Day Council NT has recognised Territorians through awards programs that celebrate leadership, contribution and active citizenship. The new campaign reframes that legacy—focusing not just on big achievements, but the everyday acts of compassion, connection and community that shape the Territory.

Helen Summers OAM, vice chair of The Australia Day Council NT, says celebrating these stories is critical to building stronger, more connected communities – and the recipients of the awards agree.

Peter Susanto the 2024 NT Young Australian of the Year – who also recently won the 2026 NT Young Achiever of the Year, said “Doing good is about showing up when people need it.”

Ramnik Walia, NT Local Hero nominee in 2026, said “In the Territory, small acts of compassion can make a powerful difference.”

Jenny Duggan OAM, who was named the 2026 Northern Territory Senior Australian of the Year described the ripple effect of this kind of recognition. “It becomes a roll-on effect… people start something new.”

Territorians encouraged to recognise individuals doing good in their communities – no matter how big or small.

To find out more about nominating someone for the Australian of the Year, Citizen of the Year and Student Citizen of the Year awards, visit the Awards page.