Senior Constable Alison Stewart named Port Stephens Local Woman of the Year 2026

newy.com.au – Senior Constable Alison Stewart has been named the Port Stephens Local Woman of the Year for 2026, announced on Thursday 26 February ahead of NSW Women’s Week.

The Local Women of the Year Awards recognise women nominated by their local Members of Parliament, with this year’s awards forming part of NSW Women’s Week, held from 2–8 March.

A NSW Police Force member for 36 years, Stewart has spent the past decade as the Crime Prevention Officer for the Port Stephens–Hunter Police District, working with residents, schools and community groups to address local safety concerns.

Port Stephens MP Kate Washington said Stewart’s recognition reflected the impact of her work across the community. “This is well deserved recognition for Senior Constable Alison Stewart, whose decades of service has made our community safer and stronger,” Washington said.

Washington said Stewart’s role extended beyond what many people expected of police. “Alison’s proactive approach to find practical solutions to problems facing local families goes well beyond what people think police do. Her commitment to our community and the people of Port Stephens has made a meaningful difference,” she said.

The announcement highlighted Stewart’s work building partnerships with schools, community organisations and vulnerable families, including programs aimed at supporting young people at risk.

Stewart also co-founded The Backpack Venture, a local initiative that provides essential school supplies to students experiencing hardship.

Reacting to the award, Stewart said the recognition belonged to the broader community effort behind crime prevention work. “I’m truly honoured and humbled by this recognition. Policing has always been about people — supporting those in need, building trust, and working alongside the community to create safer environments for everyone,” she said.

Stewart will be formally acknowledged alongside other Local Women of the Year at an official ceremony in Sydney, with all recipients to be recognised at the 2026 NSW Women of the Year Awards at the International Convention Centre in Sydney on Thursday 5 March.

Locally, she is due to be recognised at the Port Stephens International Women’s Day Breakfast on Monday 9 March at the Murrook Culture Centre.