The Alison Meighan Award will acknowledge the commitment and hard work of volunteers and local services that have supported many.

The award is named after Alison Meighan, a passionate charity advocate who passed away in 2021.

"Alison was one of Australia's most passionate advocates of Meals on Wheels and epitomised the spirit of the service," said President of Meals on Wheels Australia Sharyn Broer.

"She worked tirelessly because she never lost sight of the purpose of Meals on Wheels - to keep people well-nourished, connected and living independently in their own homes.

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"It provides a critical wellbeing check and opportunities for social connection to combat isolation and loneliness for the customer, as well as vital community connectedness for the volunteers."

The award is the first of its kind and includes the Outstanding Contribution Award for individuals, and the Service Excellence Award for local Meals on Wheels services.

Cash prizes of $5000 will also be given out for each award.

The winners are expected to be announced later this year and the nominations will be open until mid September.

You can nominate a volunteer or local service by going to mealsonwheels.org.au/learn-more/alison-meighan-awards.

Meals on Wheels has been supporting older Australians for more than 65 years across 592 service locations.

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