Published On: August 2nd, 2023

Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria is delighted to announce the highly anticipated shortlist for the 2023 Tidy Towns and Cities – Sustainability Awards. Now in its 41st year, the Awards recognise, celebrate and share environmental achievements and strong community spirit right across Victoria.

With a total of 132 entries, 70 exceptional projects have been shortlisted across 10 categories, highlighting the remarkable efforts of communities, organisations, individuals, and councils in creating a more sustainable, resilient, and beautiful Victoria.

Shortlisted entries include initiatives that have tackled waste reduction, energy efficiency, wellbeing, positive Indigenous outcomes, and community engagement, exemplifying the innovative and impactful approaches taken to promote sustainability across the state.

The shortlisting process was conducted by a panel of 10 expert independent judges who meticulously reviewed each entry in their assigned category, considering environmental impact, innovation, and community involvement.

“This year’s submissions have blown our sustainable socks off!” Said Olivia Lynch, CEO of Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria. “From creative community gardens that could make veggies tap dance to waste reduction initiatives that could convince the fussiest koala to compost, these projects have left us in awe!  So, let’s give a round of applause to all the dedicated communities who poured their hearts and souls into these transformative sustainability projects!”

Shortlisted participants will now be invited to present their projects to an expert panel of judges at a judging interview. These interviews allow shortlisted candidates to showcase their accomplishments, share insights and engage in enlightening discussions.

Finalists in each category will be revealed on September 13, 2023, and the winners announced at the prestigious Tidy Towns and Cities Awards Ceremony, to held at ZINC at Federation Square, Melbourne on October 23, 2023. The event promises to be an evening of celebration and recognition, honouring the outstanding contributions made by these remarkable individuals and organisations. Tickets to the ceremony go on sale 13 September.

The Winner of the Victorian Tidy Towns Award will automatically be entered into the National Keep Australia Beautiful Tidy Towns – Sustainability Awards held in Western Australia in May 2024. Further information regarding ticket sales, the event program, and the finalists will be available on the Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria website and through its social media channels.