Everald Compton Community Champion Medal


The Everald Compton Community Champion Medal is a distinguished accolade established to acknowledge the unsung heroes among older Australians.

Everald Compton Community Champion Medal 2026

Details for the 2026 Everald Compton Community Champion Medal are coming soon – stay tuned for more information about this prestigious award that recognises and promotes older unsung heroes who support older Australians, including nomination criteria and process.

Honour an everyday champion

The Everald Compton Community Champion Medal is a distinguished accolade established to acknowledge the unsung heroes among older Australians. ​​

The medal honours National Seniors Australia’s Founding Father’s long standing and outstanding contribution to the Australian community while celebrating everyday champions who are 'turning grey into gold' with grassroot experiences and selfless contributions that make a significant difference in their communities. ​

It also reflects NSA's values of fairness, excellence, and respect exemplified by Everald’s own experience and achievements.

The award is announced on 1 October, which is the International Day of the Older Person, following an awards ceremony.

Nomination criteria


Impact on Community

The medal recognises an individual who has been a strong advocate for their community. Someone who has enriched and made a significant and measurable contribution to the well-being of their community.

Intergenerational

The medal will recognise a connector of older and younger generations, promoting the positive value of intergenerational unity.​

Leadership & Inspiration

The individual has inspired others to engage in issues important in their community. This includes demonstrating generosity, philanthropy, and a commitment to volunteerism. Leadership can be demonstrated through organising community initiatives, leading advocacy campaigns, or being a role model in the community.

Community Involvement & Collaboration

The individual has actively engaged with the community and fostered collaborative efforts. This can include partnerships with other organisations, diverse community groups, or governmental bodies.

Inclusivity & Accessibility

The nominee’s work promotes inclusivity, ensuring that programs or initiatives are accessible to all seniors, regardless of their background, ability, or economic status.

Dementia & Mental Health

In recognition of the prevalence and impact of dementia and mental health conditions, this category has been included to acknowledge an individual who has helped to provide care and / or support to an individual, or their loved ones effected by dementia or a mental health condition. Or, who has provided support through research or philanthropic endeavours.

Please note that the nominee is not required to meet all the listed criteria to be considered for this honour. The judging panel will consider a diverse range of contributions and qualities, recognising that excellence manifests in many different ways.

Please note: the medal presentation ceremony and dinner is a FREE event for invitees.

Eligibility criteria


Nominees must be aged 50 years or older  

Self-nominations will not be accepted​

Nominees must be Australian residents but do not need to be Australian citizens

Awards will not be granted posthumously

Nominees do not need to meet all of the judging criteria

Unsuccessful nominees may be re-nominated in subsequent years

Key Dates 2026


Nominations Open

2 December 2025

Nominations Close

31 March 2026

Winner Announced & Award Ceremony

28 May 2026

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