SENIOR Constable Alison Stewart has been recognised as Port Stephens Local Woman of the Year for 2026.
She was honoured as part of the NSW Women of the Year Awards, which shine a spotlight on visionary thinkers, everyday heroes and trailblazing role models who make a meaningful difference in their communities.
This year, 94 women were nominated by local MPs as part of NSW Women’s Week (2–8 March).
With an extraordinary 36-year career in the NSW Police Force, Snr Con. Stewart has devoted her life to protecting and strengthening the Port Stephens community.
For the past decade, she has served as Crime Prevention Officer for the Port Stephens–Hunter Police District, earning respect for her compassionate and proactive approach.
Her work extends far beyond traditional policing.
She has built strong partnerships with schools, community groups and vulnerable families, creating safer environments and positive pathways for young people at risk.
She also co-founded “The Backpack Venture, a grassroots initiative providing essential school supplies to students experiencing hardship so they can start the year with dignity and confidence.
Local MP Kate Washington praised Snr Con. Stewart’s decades of service, describing her as a role model whose integrity and compassion have made the community safer and stronger.
She will be formally recognised alongside other recipients at a ceremony at the International Convention Centre in Sydney on 5 March, and locally at the Port Stephens International Women’s Day Breakfast at the Murrook Culture Centre on 9 March.
Humbled by the honour, Snr Con. Stewart said policing has always been about people – building trust, supporting those in need and working together to create safer communities.
By Jacie WHITFIELD
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