New HESTA Awards celebrate sustainability, quality and diversity

Superannuation provider HESTA launched a new awards series on Friday, celebrating those working to find creative solutions to the issues of climate change, equality and diversity while working in health and community services, including those in early childhood education and care (ECEC). 

The HESTA Impact Awards will acknowledge and celebrate the efforts made by health and community services professionals working to protect the future of society, economy and the planet, with nominations now open for individuals, teams and organisations who would like to share in the $30,000 prize pool. 

Those individuals, teams and organisations who are having a positive impact on the world by driving improved outcomes across areas such as equality, sustainability, health, diversity and inclusion are encouraged to apply.

“Building a better world doesn’t happen overnight,” HESTA CEO Debby Blakey said.

“It’s the small but unrelenting steps taken by many dedicated individuals over time that will help close the gap on inequality, fight climate change and improve diversity and inclusion,” she added.

Developing more sustainable business practices, taking steps to reduce inequality and disadvantage in communities, and improving health outcomes for more Australians are just a few of the ways in which professionals in the health and community sector are working together to protect the future of our society, our economy and our planet, and it’s these professionals who deserve recognition, Ms Blakey explained. 

“We know health and community professionals care deeply about making the world a better place and it’s important we recognise and reward the life-changing work they are doing on behalf of us all.”

Each of the three categories (team innovation, outstanding organisation, and individual distinction) will receive $10,000, which will be used to assist the winners to continue their work to create a better and more sustainable future.

Criteria for the Awards are modelled on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs) which have been adopted by more than 150 countries, including Australia – which tie together HESTA’s advocacy, responsible investment and thoughtful stewardship of its members’ savings to help create a more sustainable world.

“HESTA is committed to making the world a better place for our members to live, work and retire into,” Ms Blakey said.

“We are honoured to be able to help recognise those working in health and community services and celebrate their achievements, great and small, through the HESTA Impact Awards.”

Winners will be announced at the Awards dinner in Sydney on Wednesday 24 February 2021, subject to COVID-19 safety restrictions.

For more information or to submit a nomination, visit the Awards website, here.