High-achieving TAFE SA graduates who are using their skills to make a positive impact in their workplaces, industries or communities are being urged to share their success stories by nominating for the 2026 TAFE SA Honour Awards.

The annual Honour Awards program, now in its sixth year, recognises graduates who are demonstrating a commitment to innovation and excellence across a variety of fields and at different stages of their careers - from rising stars to industry leaders and entrepreneurs. 

TAFE SA Chief Executive Adam Kilvert says the Honour Awards are continuing to attract outstanding nominees across a range of industries, highlighting the diverse career paths open to people with vocational education and training (VET) qualifications.

“TAFE SA alumni are making great strides in industry and driving positive change in communities, and the awards program provides an opportunity to celebrate their achievements,” Mr Kilvert says.

“Last year’s Honour Awards recipients came from vastly different fields including AI-driven car parking technology, cultural heritage and regional health care but they shared a common goal to enhance the lives of others.

“Their work was having an impact in the community and it was a wonderful opportunity to reflect on their achievements and the role that TAFE SA training has had on their career direction.”

Dental assistant Emma O’Connell received the Regional Impact Award at last year’s Honour Awards for her work with the Royal Flying Doctor Service Oral Health Program delivering vital care to communities with limited services and says she felt honoured to be recognised.

“Winning the Regional Impact Award was not expected at all, there were really well-deserving finalists. I felt it really highlighted the value of the work we do and the difference it makes having people to bring healthcare to isolated areas,” she says.

“I’m grateful I had the opportunity to be part of the Honour Awards. At the presentation I enjoyed being able to share it with family and have them see a little bit more into what I do.”

The 2026 TAFE SA Honour Awards will be presented across eight categories: Future Skills Award, Excellence in Vocation Award, Creative Catalyst Award, Regional Impact Award, Courageous Spirit Award, Enriching Communities Award, Cultural Leadership Award and City of Adelaide Award.

The entry process is simple and accessible, and people can nominate themselves or someone else. Nominations for the 2026 Honour Awards close on Monday, 21 September.

More information including submission guidelines and selection criteria can be found on the TAFE SA website.

A judging panel, including representatives from TAFE SA and industry, will select a shortlist of finalists, who will be invited to a prestigious ceremony at the Adelaide Town Hall, hosted by The Lord Mayor of Adelaide, Dr Jane Lomax-Smith AM.

Pictured: The 2025 Honour Awards winners with Adelaide's Lord Mayor, Dr Jane Lomax-Smith AM.