2026 LEAD Awards Winners Unveiled at UNLEASH Conference in Perth

Tonight the winners of the 2026 Learning Environments Australasia Design (LEAD) Awards have been announced, celebrating the outstanding projects and collaborations shaping the future of learning environments across Australasia.

Presented during the LEAD Awards Dinner at the 24th Annual Learning Environments Australasia Conference, UNLEASH, held at WA Museum Boola Bardip in Perth, the awards recognised excellence in educational planning, architecture, landscape design, innovation, and community impact.

This year’s program attracted a record 90 entries from across Australia, New Zealand, and Asia, reflecting the extraordinary depth of creativity, vision, and collaboration within the sector.

Across eight award categories, projects showcased how thoughtful learning environments can enhance wellbeing, support diverse pedagogies, strengthen community connection, and create meaningful places for learners of all ages.

Leading this year’s honours as the Overall Winner was Young High School, Hilltops Young High School Library in New South Wales, designed by Hayball. The project was recognised for redefining the contemporary library as a shared school and community hub that embraces culture, creativity, wellbeing, and inclusive learning.

The 2026 winners and commendation recipients represent leading practice in educational design, demonstrating how architecture and learning can come together to unlock possibility and inspire future generations.

Learning Environments Australasia extends its congratulations to all winners, commendation recipients, and entrants, and sincerely thanks the 18 volunteer jurors, partners, and supporters who contributed to the success of the 2026 LEAD Awards program.

View the full list of winners, commendations, project citations, and gallery entries on the 2026 LEAD Awards page.