Now in its ninth year, the Westfield Local Heroes program has opened nominations for Aussies and Kiwis to nominate deserving everyday heroes.  

Nominations are officially open for the 2026 Westfield Local Heroes program, calling for Australians and New Zealanders to nominate an everyday hero making a difference in their community.

The Westfield Local Heroes program recognises and celebrates individuals who are dedicated to their organisations and causes which support the community or the environment.

Three finalists will be announced at each of the 42 Westfield destinations across Australia and New Zealand. The Hero grant recipient will receive $20,000 for their organisation or cause, and the two additional finalists will each receive a $5,000 grant.

From today, nominations are open for the next 126 Aussies and Kiwis who are making a meaningful impact in their local communities.

Scentre Group National Community Manager, Pam Wilson said: “The Westfield Local Heroes program exists to recognise individuals who dedicate themselves to making a difference in their communities. Our ninth year of the program brings with it significant milestones that we expect to reach, including a total of over $10 million in grants awarded and over 1000 alumni since the program’s inception in 2018.

“We’re pleased to announce that nominations for this year’s Westfield Local Heroes are now open, and we look forward to recognising even more everyday heroes. Nominating someone is easy and it can have a significant and long-lasting impact on the lives of many.”

Last year’s 2025 Westfield Local Heroes program saw over 1,770 nominations from community members across Australia and New Zealand, with 126 deserving individuals receiving recognition for their work.

Westfield Kotara 2025 Local Hero alumni, Olivia Hughes, said: “Having grown up with children with disabilities, I quickly learnt that all they want is to be included and have the same opportunities. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing the smiles on their faces, and it’s a privilege running the Little Rippaz program.

“Being nominated for the Westfield Local Heroes program and going on to win has been the greatest honour for me, and it is a privilege to join such an incredible cohort of Local Heroes that are making a difference in their community with the grants.”

Awarded $20,000, Olivia plans to use the grant to put beach matting on the sand to enable access for wheelchair users and others with a disability.

Westfield Manukau 2025 Local Hero alumni Toko Manuel said: “I’m motivated by offering our local entrepreneurs the tools they need to succeed, and by creating opportunities out of passionate alignments. The Westfield Local Heroes grant will allow us to continue delivering exceptional community care, and more importantly, it will change lives.”

Toko is using the Westfield Local Heroes $20,000 grant to fund two 10-week programs, paying tutors, project management and operational costs.

Westfield Local Heroes nominations open today until Thursday March 12, 2026. For more information and to nominate a Westfield Local Hero, visit www.westfield.com.au/local-heroes

*Westfield Local Heroes grants are provided in Australian and New Zealand dollars.

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