The 2026 Australian Rural Education Awards Opening Soon!

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Exciting times are ahead for Australia’s rural education community, with applications for the 2026 Australian Rural Education Awards (AREAs) opening soon.

Since 1994, the AREAs—coordinated by SPERA—have recognised outstanding individuals, institutions, organisations and industry partners who are making a real difference in regional, rural and remote (RRR) education. For more than 30 years, the awards have showcased innovation, partnership and impact, and have become a national platform for sharing excellence in rural education practice.

The AREAs are presented at the National Conference for Regional, Rural and Remote Education (NCRRRE), bringing together educators, researchers, policymakers and community leaders from across Australia. Being recognised as an AREA winner not only celebrates achievement but also amplifies great work on a national stage.

Why apply?
AREA winners receive:

  • A professionally produced short film or promotional content showcasing their project
  • The opportunity to present to the Regional Education Commissioner and Australian Government representatives
  • An invitation to present a SPERA webinar
  • A trophy and logo kit for use in communications

Most importantly, winners gain national recognition and the opportunity to inspire others working in RRR education.

Award Categories
The 2026 AREAs will recognise excellence across the following categories:

  • First Nations Education
  • Regional, Remote, Rural Partnership
  • Community Centric
  • Research Excellence
  • Innovative Project
  • Early Education

Whether you are leading a community-driven initiative, delivering innovative programs, strengthening partnerships or conducting impactful research, the AREAs provide a platform to celebrate and share your work.

Want to see the calibre of past winners? Explore previous AREA recipients and their inspiring projects.

To support potential applicants and celebrate excellence, SPERA is also launching the 2026 Webinar Series on 18 February, featuring presentations from 2024 AREA winners. These sessions will offer valuable insights into what award-winning practice looks like and how strong partnerships and innovation are shaping the future of rural education.

Registrations for the webinar series are now open: Sign up here to learn from past winners and be inspired to apply.

Applications for the 2026 Australian Rural Education Awards will open soon. Stay tuned!