Frequently Asked Questions

Can I nominate somebody for the Australian Father of the Year?

No, you can only make your nomination for the NSW Community Father of the Year. Finalists are currently being reviewed for the Australian Father of the Year, the details of which will be given on this website shortly. The winner will be announced on Friday 28th August at the Awards Luncheon.

Does the person have to be my own Dad or can I nominate a friend?

For the NSW Community Father of the Year award, you can nominate any Father so long as they are an Australian resident. He can be your own Father– biological, step, foster or adoptive – your husband, partner, brother, friend, son, someone in the local community or anyone else who works hard being a good father or father figure.

Can I nominate more than once?

No we only accept one nomination from each person, so make sure you tell us how wonderful he is in 150 words or less.

Do I have to include a photo?

No this is optional. We will be adding photos to our website and writing features in the run up to Father’s Day but you can nominate somebody without submitting a photograph.

Do I have to enter online or can I receive a paper nomination?

Both. Go to the ‘nominate now’ page where you can submit your nomination directly through the website or you can download the nomination form, print it and post it to your local Cumberland and Courier newspaper editor.

If you are having problems downloading the form, please e-mail us: events@theshepherdcentre.usyd.org.au

What’s the criteria for nominating?

Please read the criteria for making your nomination and the rules for entry on the nominate page.

When do nominations close and what happens next?

Nominations close on Monday 27 July 2009.  After this date a shortlist of fathers will be selected from regional editors of Cumberland & Courier Newspaper Group. If your nomination has moved successfully through this section of the judging process, you will be notified in mid August. At this stage your nominated father will be asked to sign an agreement with the Australian Father of the Year Awards and The Shepherd Centre, as well as being asked to complete a standard criminal history check form (to maintain the credibility of the Awards and all those associated with them).

When will the winners be announced?

The 2009 Shepherd Centre Australian Father of the Year and NSW Community Father of the Year will be announced to the media at 10.00am on Friday 28 August 2009 at a press conference, followed by a celebratory luncheon.

If you have any further questions that are not addressed here, please contact events@theshepherdcentre.usyd.edu.au or contact us