Until 31 March, nominations are open for the Health Minister’s Award for Nursing Trailblazers. Coordinated by the Australian College of Nursing (ACN) and established in partnership with the Australian Government, the award celebrates and recognises nurses who are leading transformative change and reshaping health care in Australia — highlighting the pivotal role nurses play in driving healthcare innovation. “Their pioneering contributions flow across the entire health system, benefiting patients and communities all over the country,” ACN Chief Executive Officer Adjunct Professor Kathryn Zeitz FACN said. “Previous winners have led the way with practical solutions in diverse areas such as mental health recovery camps, needle-phobia avoidance, street health services for the vulnerable and disadvantaged, ‘virtual’ hospitals in the home, and palliative care services in residential aged care facilities. “These trailblazing ideas are now part of the health system — saving lives, improving lives, and providing comfort to people needing special care, and their families,” Zeitz added. “If you know a nurse doing new and outstanding things in health care, their work deserves recognition. It’s time for you to nominate them for this prestigious Award.” Eligible nominees include registered nurses, nurse practitioners and enrolled nurses whose work has significantly advanced health outcomes. The award honours innovators who develop, explore and implement new ways to advance the nursing profession, address gaps in health care and improve patient outcomes. The winner will be announced at the ACN National Nursing Forum in Canberra, 23–25 July 2025. Nominations close on Monday, 31 March 2025 and the application form can be found here, via the ACN website. Image credit: iStock.com/digitalskillet