Announcing the finalists in the NCOSS EVA awards!

As we count down the final weeks to what will be one of the most significant milestones in NCOSS’ history, our 90th Anniversary Celebration on October 28, we are filled with both pride and anticipation.

This isn’t just a birthday celebration. It’s a moment to pause, reflect and honour the incredible legacy of the social services sector in NSW.

Our team has been busy behind the scenes to bring together an event that not only commemorates 90 years of NCOSS, but also provides space for connection, reflection and well-deserved celebration with our sector colleagues.

Central to this celebration are the EVA Awards for Excellence, Vision and Advocacy (EVA). These awards shine a spotlight on the extraordinary individuals and organisations who go above and beyond every day to make our communities stronger, fairer and more inclusive.

We were thrilled to receive 54 nominations across four categories. Reading through these submissions has been both humbling and inspiring. They serve as a powerful reminder of the depth of talent, commitment, innovation and empathy that exists right across our sector — from grassroots organisations in small communities to major service providers tackling complex social challenges.

Our heartfelt thanks go to everyone who took the time to submit a nomination. Your stories and examples of leadership, positive impact and compassion are nothing short of remarkable. To our EVA Awards finalists: congratulations. You are setting the standard for excellence in our field, and we look forward to celebrating with you all on 28 October at the Australian Museum!

Finalists:

Category 1: Excellence and Impact – Organisation

• Central Coast Tenant’s Advice and Advocacy Service
  
  
• Dignity
  
  
• Good 360 Australia
  
  
• Mackillop Family Services
  
  
• Uniting NSW/ ACT
  
  

Category 2: Excellence and Impact – Leadership

• Edward Morris
  
  
• Kane Abbott
  
  
• Mary Ellen Harrod
  
  
• Penny Lamaro

Category 3: Excellence and Impact – Frontline worker

• Andrew Wong
  
  
• Anna Certoma
  
  
• Lisa Thompson
  
  
• Meher Banu

Category 4: Amir Bodenstein Lived/ Living Experience Individual Honorary Recognition

• Anna Nagel
  
  
• Jenny Smith
  
  
• Kevin Street
  
  
• Renee McNab