Judges use a balanced rubric to ensure consistent, evidence-based decisions. Summary of criteria and typical weightings:
- Service Above Self (40%) — What has the person you are nominating done within their ESA role that demonstrates Service Above Self (i.e. above and beyond their normal paid or unpaid role within their Agency)
- Community Service (50%) — Their Community Service, include how long they have demonstrated Service Above Self (unselfish volunteer service).
- Normal Duties (10%) — What are the normal/usual duties of the person you are nominating as an Emergency Service Member?
Full rubric details and category variations are provided on the Categories & Criteria page.
We safeguard fairness and confidentiality at every step.
- Conflicts of Interest: Judges declare all conflicts annually and before each panel. Any conflicted judge is recused from related nominations.
- Independent Judging: Scores are submitted independently before any discussion.
- Data Privacy: Nominations are shared only with authorised reviewers under need-to-know principles. Personal data is handled in line with AUSRESCA privacy practices.
- Evidence Verification: Documented outcomes are checked prior to finalist confirmation.
- Security: Submissions are stored in secure systems with restricted access and audit trails.
- Nominations Open: March
- Eligibility Screening: Rolling during nomination period
- Judging Window: May-June
- Final Panel & Approvals: June-July
- Finalists Announced: July
Dates may vary slightly year to year; always check the current Key Dates on the home page for each State or Territory.
Find detailed answers about nominations, eligibility, judging, and the event.
We’ve compiled the most common questions to help you prepare a strong, complete nomination.
Have a question about judging or eligibility? Our Secretariat can help.
Please provide the nominee’s name and category (if known) so we can direct your query appropriately. We aim to respond within 2–3 business days.