National Search and Rescue Awards

The awards are hosted by the National Search and Rescue Council (NATSAR Council), which includes the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), the Australian Defence Force and state, territory and federal police agencies.

They recognise:

• outstanding contributions to search and rescue in the Australian region during the previous financial year
• long-standing service and commitment to the search and rescue system.

Any person or organisation can submit a nomination. Complete a nomination form now.

We present awards across 4 categories. 

For search and rescue incidents or operations, nominations are submitted based on the individual or organisations level of training and involvement in search and rescue: 

• Professional –  paid and trained in search and rescue, such as police officers or rescue aircraft crew.
• Volunteer –  unpaid but trained in search and rescue, such as volunteer marine rescue organisations or community volunteers.
• Non-professional  – members of the public who assisted during a search and rescue event or operation, such as hikers, surfers or passers-by. 

For outstanding contribution and to search and rescue over many years: 

• Long-standing contribution to search and rescue - an individual, group or organisation