City of Palmerston proudly hosted the 2026 Australia Day Ceremony today, welcoming 34 new citizens and announcing the Palmerston Australia Day Award winners in a heartfelt celebration of community, culture and civic pride.
Held at the Palmerston Recreation Centre, the ceremony brought together friends, family, government officials, local leaders and community members to witness new Australians take their citizenship pledge. The event marked an important milestone for conferees, who now call Australia and Palmerston, home.
Reflecting this year’s theme of ‘Reflect, Respect, Celebrate’, the ceremony embraced the rich cultural diversity of the community, with new citizens representing 20 different countries from around the world.
The event also recognised outstanding contributions through the 2026 Palmerston Australia Day Awards, honouring individuals and groups who continue to play an essential role in making Palmerston a vibrant and thriving community.
Balachander Mohanraj was awarded Citizen of the Year, in recognition of his outstanding volunteer contributions to the Palmerston community for more than 15 years. His commitment to Palmerston includes leading the annual Good Friday Walk, supporting St Vincent de Paul Society, organising Christmas and Boxing Day community gatherings and coaching youth cricket.
Joshua Harrington was awarded Young Citizen of the Year for his dedicated volunteer service with St John Ambulance since 2019.
The Tamil Society of the Northern Territory was recognised as the Community Event of the Year for The Indian Food Festival, held in Goyder Square in August 2025.
City of Palmerston Acting Mayor, Damian Hale said, “We extend a warm welcome to our newest citizens and congratulate our award winners, as well as all those who were nominated. The commitment and dedication shown across all award categories is truly remarkable."
The prestigious Palmerston Australia Day Awards provide an opportunity to publicly recognise and thank the individuals and groups who selflessly give their time and energy, making a positive contribution to our community and enabling others to shine.”
This event was assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council.
To read more information about the Palmerston Australia Day Award winners and nominees, visit palmerston.nt.gov.au.
Pictured: Acting Mayor Damian Hale, Young Citizen of the Year 2026 Joshua Harrington, Australia Day Council Vice Chair, Helen Summers OAM
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Media Contact: 0418 372 444
marcomms@palmerston.nt.gov.au