Nominations for the inaugural National Disability Awards, coinciding with the International Day of People with Disability, are now open.

The awards will recognise and celebrate outstanding contributions and achievements made by people with a disability to the community, and by individuals to the disability sector.

There are five award categories:

• Community Contribution Award: A person with a disability who has made a significant contribution to the community.
• Young Community Contribution Award: For a 12 to 25-year-old with a disability who has made a significant contribution to the community.
• Inclusion Award: A person who has significantly contributed to improving the lives of people with disability.
• Go Getter Award: A 12 to 25-year-old who has significantly contributed to improving the lives of people with disability.
• Personal Achievement Award: A person with a disability or the carer of a person with a disability who has overcome adversity to achieve personal goals.

People are encouraged to nominate themselves or someone they know for the award. Achievements at all levels, whether it be local, regional, state or national, will be considered and recognised.

Nominations close on Friday 20 July and the awards will be presented at an awards ceremony in Canberra on Monday 3 December, International Day of People with Disability (IDPWD).

For more information, visit the IDPWD website, or call 1800 677 427.