NT AOD Awards 2025 – Celebrating Excellence Across the Sector

NT AOD Awards 2025 – Celebrating Excellence Across the Sector

Thank you to everyone who submitted nominations for the 2025 NT Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) Awards! This year we received an incredible range of entries, highlighting the depth of talent, compassion and dedication across the sector. Our panel of external reviewers had the difficult task of selecting finalists from a pool of truly inspiring individuals and organisations.

Winners were officially announced and celebrated at the AADANT Conference 2025, where we recognised the exceptional work being done to improve outcomes for individuals, families  and communities affected by alcohol and other drugs across the Northern Territory.

We are proud to honour the following 2025 NT AOD Award recipients:

🏆 NT AOD Worker of the Year – Denoy John

Sponsored by TeamHEALTH

Presented during the AADANT Conference 2025, this award recognises Denoy John’s 6.5 years of unwavering commitment to supporting individuals impacted by alcohol and other drugs, mental health challenges, and complex wellbeing needs. Denoy is known for his compassionate, collaborative approach, strong advocacy, and deep commitment to person-centred care and cultural safety. His work has left a lasting impact on the lives of many across the NT.

🏆 Outstanding Contribution to Youth Work – Sarah Austin

Sponsored by Star College Australia

Sarah has made an incredible impact over the past four years, particularly through her work with FORWAARD and the Tiwi Islands community. Her culturally safe, youth-friendly interventions include evidence-based workshops, one-on-one counselling, and community collaboration.

🏆 Excellence in Harm Reduction – Sarah Austin

Sponsored by Mission Australia

Sarah’s leadership in harm reduction and rehabilitation extends to developing tailored treatment plans, facilitating therapy sessions, and creating safe, empowering environments for young people and their families. Her passion and evidence-based approach are helping reshape futures across the Top End.

🏆 Carole Taylor Advocacy Award – Michael Fisher

Sponsored by DASA Alice Springs

Named in honour of the late Carole Taylor, former CEO of DASA, this award acknowledges Michael Fisher’s outstanding advocacy and dedication to client-centred care. Known for his integrity, professional development, and respectful, trusted relationships with clients and colleagues, Michael exemplifies what it means to advocate with heart and purpose.

🏆 Excellence in Alcohol and Other Drug Treatment – DASA Methamphetamine Outreach Program (MOP)

Sponsored by Charles Darwin University

This unique, assertive outreach program meets clients where they are, delivering timely, targeted AOD treatment and support. The MOP is the only program of its kind in the Northern Territory and Australia. Its effectiveness is clear: 100% of current and former users say they would recommend the program to family and friends.

🏆 Excellence in Indigenous AOD Programs/Service – FORWAARD

Sponsored by The Salvation Army NT

FORWAARD’s Alcohol and Other Drug Training Awareness Project has reached over 290 Year 8 and 9 students across Darwin and Palmerston, providing culturally safe, age-appropriate, trauma-informed sessions. Their early intervention and harm minimisation strategies are planting the seeds for healthier futures and stronger communities.

🏆 Frontline Service Award (CALD) – Worker in Administration – Jessica Creagh

Sponsored by Flinders University & FARE Australia

Jessica has played a vital role in advancing CAAPS' communication and service delivery since mid-2024. Her strong ties to community and unwavering commitment have made her a trusted member of the team. From co-developing the CAAPS Communication Strategy 2024–2026 to working across services and stakeholder groups, Jessica is a quiet force driving culturally safe and responsive practice.

We congratulate all award winners and finalists, and thank our sponsors, presenters and nominators for making this celebration of excellence possible. These awards shine a light on the incredible work being done every day across the NT to support people impacted by alcohol and other drugs — and remind us all of the power of dedication, compassion, and community connection.

Stay tuned for the 2026 Awards announcement and nomination opening later this year!