The Sydney Awards, hosted by the Committee for Sydney, quickly became one of the city’s most prestigious events. In its fourth year, the awards celebrate individuals and initiatives that make Sydney unique, bringing together the best and brightest from diverse industries and communities. It’s an evening that highlights the people and projects shaping the city in profound and positive ways.
The awards, held in September 2024, attracted around 300 attendees, including high-profile figures like the Prime Minister, The Honourable Anthony Albanese, who personally acknowledged the contributions of many nominees. This year saw the biggest turnout yet, with growing momentum and interest from Sydneysiders eager to celebrate their city’s innovators, change-makers, and unsung heroes.
A true celebration of Sydney
What makes the Sydney Awards truly special is the wide range of categories designed to capture the diverse spirit of the city. From Sydneysider of the Year, Project of the Year, Peoples Choice Award, Young Sydneysider of the Year, which honours those under 30 making a significant impact, and Unsung Hero, the awards aim to recognise those shaping Sydney for the better.
The Project of the Year award goes beyond individual achievements to acknowledge team-driven initiatives. This year, Sydney Metro’s game-changing project won the People’s Choice Award, highlighting the collaboration behind the city’s recent transportation transformation. With over 3,000 public votes for the People’s Choice Award, it’s clear that Sydneysiders are eager to have their voices heard in celebrating their city’s accomplishments.
The “Unsung Hero Award,” is dedicated to those whose impactful work often flies under the radar. This year, Corinne Kemp, co-chair of Impact 100 Sydney, was recognised for her contributions to the philanthropy scene. Medical student and author of My Strong Heart – Alexia Paglia took out young Sydneysider of the Year. Sydneysider of the Year was awarded to former Vice Chancellor of Sydney University and current Job and Skills Australia Commissioner Barney Glover. Student Advocate and Project Officer for Muslim Women Australia Khadijah Habbouche received the People Choice Award. At the same time, Project of the Year went to Football Australia for the Women’s World Cup.
The Sydney Awards started with a vision to create an all-encompassing celebration of the city’s greatness. There was a gap in a city with various regional or niche-focused accolades—a need for a prestigious, all-inclusive event that would honour those making a difference across Greater Sydney. “We didn’t have a singular, big, prestigious event for Sydney,” says Cheyenne Bardos of the Committee for Sydney. “We wanted to bring everyone together—across industries, sectors, and communities—to spotlight the people and projects that make Sydney what it is.”
Originally featuring categories like “Western Sydney Champion,” the awards have since evolved to encompass a broader representation of the city. Today, anyone from Greater Sydney is eligible, allowing for a more inclusive celebration of its diverse and dynamic residents. With categories like the “Global Sydney Award,” which recognises individuals who have put Sydney on the map globally, the event has grown to reflect a city constantly pushing boundaries.
The power behind the scenes
The Sydney Awards may have grand ambitions and even grander results, but behind the scenes, a small, dedicated team makes it all happen. From the moment one year’s event ends, preparations for the next begin. “There’s probably a three-month break after the event, and then we start planning for the next one,” Cheyenne explains. The months leading up to the event are intense, with key team members working tirelessly to coordinate nominations, public votes, and the ceremony itself.
As the Sydney Awards grow, so does their importance in the city’s cultural landscape. The event garners more attention, nominations, and public involvement each year. With a vibrant mix of recognition for individuals, teams, and innovative projects, the awards are fast becoming a prestigious institution in their own right.
The Sydney Awards aren’t just about honouring the past—they’re about celebrating the future of this iconic city. Whether a young leader making waves, an unsung hero working quietly behind the scenes, or a team driving change through a groundbreaking project, these awards allow everyone to shine.
The awards will undoubtedly remain a key event on the city’s calendar—an evening when Sydney comes together to celebrate what makes it so special: its people.
Accounting For Good is your financial compliance specialist
At Accounting For Good, we proudly provide accounting services to organisations like the Committee for Sydney, which are making a meaningful impact on the community through initiatives like the Sydney Awards. As specialists in the Not-for-Profit sector, we understand the importance of ensuring financial stability, ACNC compliance, and sustainable growth for organisations dedicated to making a difference.
Our team works with Not-for-Profits with turnovers ranging from $1M to $20M, helping them manage tax concessions and stay focused on their missions. Partnering with the Committee for Sydney is a privilege, and we are honoured to contribute to their efforts in celebrating the people and projects that make Sydney exceptional.
Contact us for a free consultation if your organisation needs expert financial guidance. Let us handle your accounting needs so you can focus on what matters most—serving your community and driving positive change.
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