NCJWA announces inaugural Esther Awards

Australia’s peak Jewish women’s organisation, the National Council of Jewish Women Australia (NCJWA), is calling for nominations for its inaugural Esther Awards, to be presented at the NCJWA National Conference in August. The awards recognise women who step forward with courage, act with purpose and lead with integrity – reflecting the enduring legacy of Queen Esther in today’s world.

“The awards are grounded in our Jewish values,” explains NCJWA President, Lynda Ben-Menashe. “We want to celebrate both Jewish and non-Jewish women who have demonstrated leadership and made a meaningful difference on behalf of our community.”

The awards will include four categories which represent the many ways women across Australia have significantly impacted the Jewish community and strengthened the social fabric of Australia;

The Esther Courage Award honours women who have demonstrated outstanding moral courage and principled action.

The Esther Lifetime Contribution Award recognises women whose sustained, long-term dedication has made a significant contribution to community life and leadership.

The Esther Allyship Award recognises non-Jewish women who have demonstrated a genuine commitment to supporting the Jewish community and promoting broader social cohesion.

The Esther Rising Leader Award celebrates emerging leaders who have shown exceptional promise, initiative and leadership potential.

“Especially at a time of rising complexity and social tension, many women have stepped forward – often without formal power, and sometimes at personal or professional risk. These awards will recognise their courage, commitment and impact,” Ben-Menashe said.

Nominations are now open and anyone may nominate an individual or self-nominate through the NCJWA website.

The awards will be assessed by a panel of judges: current NCJWA president Lynda Ben-Menashe, former NCJWA president Di Hirsh, NCJWA Ambassador Professor Kerryn Phelps, The University of Melbourne Associate Provost Professor Marcia Langton, co-CEO of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry Peter Wertheim, president of the Zionist Federation of Australia Jeremy Leibler and author and advocate Dassi Erlich.

Finalists and winners will be announced on the opening evening of NCJWA’s National Conference on August 22nd, at a special reception at Admiralty House hosted by Governor-General Sam Mostyn.

Nominations close 31st July 2026. To find out more or make a nomination go to ncjwa.org.au/conference