National recognition
National awards recognising individuals, groups and projects demonstrating excellence in environmental education.
Awards
Overview
For over 45 years, AAEE has celebrated excellence in environmental education by recognising the outstanding contributions of its members.
The AAEE Awards honour individuals, groups and projects that demonstrate leadership, impact and commitment across diverse environmental education settings.
Through national awards, fellowships and scholarships, the program shines a light on inspiring practice, celebrates long-term dedication, and helps elevate the value of environmental education across Australia.
Key features of this project
Celebrating impact
Long-standing program celebrating leadership, innovation and impact across community, professional and volunteer sectors.
Inspiring action
Public recognition that elevates environmental education practice and inspires others across Australia.
Awards
2026 nominations now open for all categories, nominations close at COB Monday, 25th October.
Fellowship, Scholarships and Recognition
AAEE’s national awards have evolved over time to reflect the diversity and depth of environmental education practice. Awards have included AAEE Fellowships, the Environmental Educator of the Year Award, the Brian Foreman Scholarship, and project-based recognitions. Nominations are periodically invited, with award recipients announced through AAEE channels and at major member gatherings.
Current categories:
- AAEE National Environmental Educator of the Year – Volunteer Educator
- AAEE National Environmental Educator of the Year – Professional Educator
- AAEE National Environmental Educator of the Year – JEDI (Justice/Equity/Diversity/Inclusion) Educator
- AAEE Environmental Education Project/Event of the Year
Please follow all instructions carefully for your nomination to be considered:
- Nominees in all categories must be current AAEE members.
- For the Project/Event of the Year, the lead facilitator/project coordinator must be a current AAEE member.
- Nominations in all categories can be made by any AAEE member, in collaboration with the nominee/s.
The awards will be announced in conjunction with the AAEE National AGM in November. Winners will be presented with a framed certificate and granted access to a free AAEE Professional Learning of their choice (over the next 2 years), as well as being featured on the AAEE website and social media.
2025 Winners
Professional Environmental Educators of the Year: Cate McQuillen & Abby Mitchell ~ Volunteer Environmental Educator of the Year: Bruce Baker ~ JEDI Environmental Educators of the Year: Monty Nixon & Eve Mayes ~ Environmental Education Project of the Year: Tasmanian Youth Climate Leaders Program
Past Recipients
We have celebrated many recipients over the years. Our past recipients and information will be available in our eeStories soon.