Founded by Rotarians to highlight extraordinary community contribution, the Australia Rotary Emergency Services Community Awards have grown from state initiatives into a nationally recognised program. Key milestones include expansion across services, strengthened judging integrity, and a growing network of partners enabling broader impact. Today, the Awards amplify stories of everyday heroes—from rural brigades to metropolitan response teams—uniting Australians in gratitude.
These Awards are powered by the community. Neighbours, colleagues, and local groups nominate the people who quietly make a big difference—those who mentor, educate, innovate, and serve beyond the call. Share concrete examples, community outcomes, and endorsements to help judges understand the impact. Nominations are welcome from ACT, NSW and Victoria and across career and volunteer roles.
AUSRESCA is an independent, Rotary-led program. Judging follows a documented, multi-stage process. Personal information is handled responsibly and used only for administering the Awards. For full details on judges, assessment stages and integrity measures, see the Judges & Process page.
Led by Rotary volunteers, the program includes a Steering Committee, and independent Judging Panel. We acknowledge the generous contribution of state and territory agencies, community organisations, and partners who help share nominations, host events, and support outreach. Together, we elevate the stories of service that inspire Australia.
There are many ways to support AUSRESCA: nominate a deserving first responder, partner with us to extend our reach, or contact the Secretariat to collaborate on community outreach and events.