Four women working across property, gendered violence prevention, cancer advocacy and aged care have been recognised at the 2026 ACT Women’s Awards.

Property Council ACT and Capital Region executive director Ashlee Berry received the Excellence in Industry Award for her work in housing policy, supporting women in the property sector and community fundraising.

Robyn Smyth received the Gender Equity and Social Change Award for her advocacy for people living with inherited cancer risk. Her work has focused on education, psychosocial support and policy, and last year she ran the City2Surf topless to highlight funding issues after undergoing a mastectomy.

Nursing educator and gerontology researcher Dr Sujatha Shanmugasundaram, known as Dr Suja Shan, received the Lifetime Achievement Award after 35 years working in research, teaching, dementia and aged care.

Katherine Berney, prevention of gendered violence director at the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education, received the Minister’s Impact Award.

Women, Seniors and Veterans Minister Caitlin Tough recognised Ms Berney’s work influencing national policy and systems change aimed at improving women’s safety.

This year’s awards introduced new categories recognising contributions by women and gender-diverse people across industry and the community.

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