This Award recognises excellence in a young or new professional working in the Victorian Public Sector. It is awarded to a young person, or mid/late career person following a career change, who goes above and beyond and demonstrates exceptional initiative and endeavour. The aim of the award is to reward outstanding contributions, foster a culture of excellence in the public sector, and contribute to public sector staff retention. Nominations are especially encouraged from Managers and Directors to recognise excellence in their teams. Self-nominations are also welcomed.
Kathy Mitchell Award Criteria
2026 Award Recipient
Congratulations to
Nic Watson, Senior Planner, State Planning Assessment and Facilitation, Department of Transport and Planning who received the 2026 Award. Nic received a "VPELA Golden Ticket" which entitles him to membership and complimentary attendance at VPELA events for 2026.
Kathy Mitchell AM, Nic Watson, Department of Transport and Planning and Jodi Kennedy, Bass Coast Shire and VPELA President
Previous Recipients
2024 Amaya De Silva, City of Boroondara
2025 Tahnae McCormack, South Gippsland Shire Council
2026 Nic Watson, Department of Transport and Planning