Paul Johnson Positive Ageing Award
The Paul Johnson Positive Ageing Award celebrates outstanding individuals in the aged care sector who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and impact in promoting positive ageing for older Australians.

Honouring Leadership in Positive Ageing
Named in memory of Paul Johnson OAM, a visionary leader whose dedication to reablement, health, and wellness transformed aged care, this award recognises those who, like Paul, are committed to ensuring that age is never a barrier to living well. Paul, who passionately pursued healthy active ageing at not-for-profit aged care provider BallyCara in the decade he spent with the group, was posthumously awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in January 2025 for his services to aged welfare.
Award & Recognition
Prize: $1,500 cash prize sponsored by BallyCara
Presentation: The award will be presented by Marcus Riley, Executive Chairman of BallyCara, as part of the final session at the Positive Ageing Summit 2025.
Eligibility & Criteria
This award is open to individuals within the aged care sector who have demonstrated:
- Exceptional leadership in driving initiatives that support positive ageing.
- Meaningful impact in enhancing the wellbeing of older Australians.
- Innovation in reablement, health, wellness, or aged care practices.
- A vision for the future, with plans to expand or sustain their contributions.
Applicants will be assessed based on:
- Program Summary – A clear description of their initiative or work.
- Impact – Measurable outcomes and real-world benefits for older Australians.
- Future Actions – Their commitment to sustaining and growing their impact.
- Supporting References – Testimonials or endorsements from colleagues, partners, or those directly affected by their work.
Assessment & Selection
All applications will be reviewed by a panel of industry leaders, ensuring a rigorous and fair process:
- Process – Each panellist independently reviews and scores applications (1-5 per criteria + overall score). The panel then convenes to select finalists and the award recipient.
- Integrity – Panel members will only assess applications where no conflict of interest exists.
Award Presentation
The Paul Johnson Positive Ageing Award will be presented during the final session of the Positive Ageing Summit 2025. The award will be delivered by Marcus Riley, Executive Chairman of BallyCara.
Nominations Close: Friday, 18 April 2025.
Email info@positiveageingsummit.com.au for more information.
