CatholicCare Diocese of Wollongong has been named Outstanding Community Organisation at the 2026 Illawarra Business Awards.
The award, announced at a gala event at the University of Wollongong on Friday, recognises organisations that make a significant and lasting contribution to their community. It is the first time CatholicCare has entered the awards program.
For more than 45 years, CatholicCare has supported children, young people, individuals, families and older people across the Illawarra, Shoalhaven, Macarthur, and Southern Highlands.
Its services span aged care, disability and NDIS support, early learning, out of school hours care, foster care, counselling, and family support.
CatholicCare Diocese of Wollongong chief executive Michael Austin said the award belonged to the staff.
“I’m incredibly proud of CatholicCare to have won this award,” Mr Austin said. “The award belongs to every staff member. They show up for our community every day. This is just recognition of their care, and I couldn’t be prouder of them.”
Mr Austin said the recognition was also shared with the many partners CatholicCare works alongside.
“We don’t do this work alone. Our schools, parishes, government partners, referrers and community organisations are all part of everything we achieve. This is a proud moment for all of us.”
CatholicCare was named a finalist in August and was selected as the category winner following a panel judging process.
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CatholicCare Diocese of Wollongong named Outstanding Community Organisation at the 2026 Illawarra Business Awards (CatholicCare Diocese of Wollongong)
