ACT Chief Minister Katy Gallagher is encouraging the ACT community to nominate fellow Canberrans for the Australian of the Year Awards in 2013.

"In previous years we have always had a very strong representation of ACT nominees for the Australian of the Year Awards and in 2013, our centenary year, I encourage the community to take the time to nominate those who have achieved extraordinary things," the Chief Minister said.

The ACT Australian of the Year 2012 was awarded to Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston AC AFC, while Betty Churcher AO was awarded the ACT Senior Australian of the Year 2012; Dr Sam Prince the ACT Young Australian of the Year 2012; and the ACT Local Hero 2012 was Julie Tongs OAM.

"I'm calling on the ACT community to submit nominations for those people who are our genuine local heroes, Canberrans who inspire their fellow community members with their outstanding achievements," the Chief Minister said.

Nominations can be made online at www.australianoftheyear.org.au or via a nomination form available from any branch of major sponsor the Commonwealth Bank. For more information call 1300 655 193.

 Nominations close on 31 August 2012.