Nominations are now open for the 2022 award!
YMCA Victoria (the Y) is on the hunt for the 66th annual Victorian Father of the Year.
We're looking for an inspiring father figure whose made a profound and positive impact on the lives of young people.
A father figure can be a:
- Relative (father, uncle, brother),
- Role model (coach, mentor, teacher) or
- Community leader (advocate, organiser).
The award is open to father figures currently living in the state of Victoria (Australia) and is inclusive of all people who identify as male.
Nominations for the 2022 award close at midnight on Sunday 21 August.
Scroll down to learn more about the award, our past winners and the special ceremony held at Melbourne Town Hall.
DNA alone doesn’t make a dad
Impact of the award
In July 2022, we caught up with our two most recent winners and their families, to discuss their experiences with the award and what it symbolises.
Watch Stephen and Sam's video interviews to learn about the awards impact.
Stephen Curran | 2020 Winner
Sam Chew | 2021 Winner
History of the award
Since 1956, the Victorian Father of the Year award has recognised Victorian dads and father figures who make positive contributions to their communities.
Originally founded by the Victorian Father’s Day Council, the award is now governed by it's long time supporter YMCA Victoria.
Historically, the award focused on recognising prominent public figures (like Andrew Gaze and Bert Newton) who could help promote the awards values.
In it's current form, the Victorian Father of the Year award provides a platform for everyday father figures who share the Y's belief in empowering young people.
Award ceremony
Ready to submit a nomination?
To nominate an extraordinary father figure in your life, you must complete our dedicated nomination form.
The form asks you to provide contact information (for yourself and the nominee) and respond to four open questions related to the award criteria.
Nominations close at midnight on Sunday 21 August.
Contact us if you have any questions about the award before submitting your nomination.