Federal Member for Grayndler Anthony Albanese today encouraged residents of the Inner West to submit nominations for the Australian of the Year Awards 2011.

“Earlier this year, Jack Manning Bancroft from Balmain was the NSW nominee for Young Australian of the Year for his work mentoring indigenous children,” said Mr Albanese.

“If you know someone else in the local area who deserves similar recognition, now is the time to nominate them.”

Nominating is simple – you can complete a nomination form online at www.australianoftheyear.org.au, pick up a nomination form from any branch of the Commonwealth Bank or call 1300 655 193 for more information.

There are four award categories:

• Australian of the Year - open to all Australians who deserve recognition for their extraordinary achievements, contributions to the community and nation and who are inspirational role models to all Australians;


• Senior Australian of the Year - recognises those Australians aged 60 years and over who continue to achieve and contribute to the community;


• Young Australian of the Year - recognises those extraordinary young Australians aged 16 - 30 years who are making their mark on our community;


• Australia’s Local Hero - recognises Australians who make a real difference in their local communities and whose outstanding contributions enrich the lives of those around them.

Nominations close on Tuesday 31 August 2010. All nominees must be Australian citizens.

For more information on the Australian of the Year Awards or to submit your nomination online, visit www.australianoftheyear.org.au