A Catalyst for Real-World Impact
The Impact 25 Awards (2014–2022) stood among Australia’s most innovative and exciting honours, created to spotlight individuals making extraordinary contributions to social change. Unlike traditional awards, Impact 25 was uniquely democratic, driven by public nominations and votes. This people-powered process meant recognition came directly from the communities these changemakers served — a powerful validation of their work and values.
Over the course of its nine-year history, the awards captured the attention and imagination of the nation. At its height, more than 31,900 Australians participated in the years’ public voting, engaging with the stories and efforts of those nominated. These weren’t just well-known figures — the awards uncovered hidden champions: grassroots leaders, social entrepreneurs, educators, community advocates, and frontline workers whose influence often extended far beyond public recognition.
Each year, 25 individuals were voted as standout figures making a difference across the country. In addition to the public vote, a panel of respected sector leaders selected three Judges’ Choice winners in the categories of Innovation, Influence, and Collaboration — values at the heart of real, systemic change. The judges, drawn from philanthropy, social enterprise, and impact-driven organisations, ensured that the awards were deeply grounded in sector expertise.
What truly set Impact 25 apart was its lasting effect on the lives and work of its recipients. Many winners spoke of how the recognition elevated their visibility, credibility, and ability to grow their impact — whether through new partnerships, increased funding, or expanded media reach. 350,000 annual social media engagements
The awards celebrated a broad and inclusive spectrum of contributors — from CEOs and policy-makers to refugees, students, First Nations leaders, and community organisers. The issues they tackled were just as diverse: climate change, health equity, Indigenous justice, economic empowerment, education, refugee rights, and more.
Why Impact 25 Mattered:
Public-powered: Community votes determined the winners — a rare, authentic form of recognition in Australia’s awards landscape.
Sector-shaping: The awards became a trusted barometer of leadership and influence within the social sector.
Uncovering untold stories: Many nominees were previously unknown beyond their immediate circles, and the awards brought their work into the national spotlight.
Celebrating diversity: From remote regions to urban centres, awardees came from all walks of life and all parts of the country.
Creating momentum: For many winners, the award was a turning point, leading to increased support, advocacy opportunities, and deeper engagement with their causes.
A Legacy That Endures
The Impact 25 Awards didn’t just recognise changemakers — they accelerated them. They highlighted the power of community-backed leadership and reinforced the value of public trust and collaboration in solving society’s most pressing issues.
In a sector that contributes 4.3% of Australia’s GDP and employs over one million people, Impact 25 provided a rare national platform that honoured both celebrated figures and unsung heroes alike. It served as a reminder that innovation, courage, and care exist at all levels of society — and deserve to be seen and supported.
Though the program formally concluded in 2022, the legacy of Impact 25 continues — in the people, organisations, and movements it helped lift, and in the belief that recognising good work helps drive even greater change.
The logistics we developed:
How do you decide who is released for voting?
Pro Bono Australia reads through every nomination and does research into the nominees. From this we whittle it down to the 150 people who we believe represent the work that has made the biggest impact in the past year.
How do we cast a vote?
The public can vote for their favourite nominee via an online poll which will be released on 18 January 2022.
Can we vote for more than one nominee?
We know it’s hard to choose between all the amazing individuals, so you can vote for up to three nominees.
What are the Judges Choice Awards?
Each year we put together a panel of professionals with their finger on the pulse of the social sector. This panel awards three Judges Choice Awards to three of the deserving winners.
