The Premier’s NAIDOC Award recognises the outstanding achievements and service of two extraordinary Aboriginal South Australians who have made a significant contribution to the lives of Aboriginal people in South Australia.

The award recipients are announced in July during NAIDOC Week, observed across Australia each year to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal people.

Nominations have closed for 2026

Dr Alice Alitya Rigney Prize

The Dr Alice Alitya Rigney Prize commemorates renowned educationalist and Australia’s first female Aboriginal school principal, Dr Alice Alitya Rigney AO PSM, by recognising a young Aboriginal person in South Australia who is dedicated to their education, in year 10, year 11 or year 12.

Previous award recipients

Past recipients of the Premier’s NAIDOC Award include:

• 2025 - Josephine Kunde and Michael (Mickey) Kumatpi O’Brien
• 2024 - Sandra (Sandy) Miller and Wayne Miller
• 2023 – Eunice Aston and Frank Lampard OAM Centenary Medal (2001)
• 2022 – Jeffrey Newchurch and Kunyi June Anne McInerney
• 2021 – Major ‘Moogy’ Sumner AM
• 2020 – Awards were not held due to COVID
• 2019 – Uncle Lewis Yerloburka O’Brien AO Centenary Medal (2001)
• 2018 – Joyleen Thomas PSM
• 2017 – Frank Wanganeen and Dr Alice Alitya Rigney AO PSM
• 2016 – Wendy Edmondson
• 2015 – Lavene Ngatokorua and Kali Hayward
• 2014 – Josie Agius Centenary Medal (2001)
• 2013 – Nici Cumpston OAM
• 2012 – Linda Clayton
• 2011 – Vince Coulthard Centenary Medal (2001)
• 2010 – Marj Tripp AO Centenary Medal (2001)
• 2009 – Sharon Gollan
• 2008 – Jean Agius
• 2007 – Faith Thomas AM