Nominations have today opened for the 2016 Premier’s Multicultural Media Awards recognising the contributions of the community media to New South Wales.

NSW Premier Mike Baird and Minister for Multiculturalism John Ajaka today launched the nomination process and encouraged all multicultural media professionals to enter.

“There are more than 200 languages spoken across the state and the multicultural media plays an important role, particularly for people whose first language isn’t English,” Mr Baird said.

“Many people across the state have strong links to their homeland and these awards recognise the work of media professionals who keep diverse audiences informed.”

Now in their fourth year, the awards are open to journalists, photographers and editors across 14 award categories including, best print publication, community television or radio report, and emerging journalist.

“Our dedicated and resourceful multicultural media are a strong voice for our diverse, multicultural communities,” Mr Ajaka said.

“No outlet is too big or too small and I encourage local media outlets, from metropolitan Sydney to the regional outskirts of our state, to nominate.”

Young Journalist of the Year Tahmina Ansari, a former Afghan refugee and journalist working at the ABC, said it was humbling to receive the Premier’s top youth award in 2015.

“Young professionals need to be supported and encouraged to pursue a career in multicultural media. Diverse young voices are crucial for a healthy media landscape and the Premier’s Multicultural Media Awards are a great step in recognising the hard work of multicultural community media,” Ms Ansari said.

Nominations are open until 5pm on Sunday 19 June 2016. More information about the awards, eligibility and past winners can be found by visiting:

http://multicultural.nsw.gov.au/awards/premiers_multicultural_media_awards