Vivability has once again been recognised among the leading organisations in regional New South Wales, taking out two major honours at the 2026 Western NSW Business Awards.
The Bathurst-based organisation was named Winner of Outstanding Community Organisation and Winner of Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion, reinforcing its growing reputation for inclusive employment, social enterprise and community impact across the region.
The Western NSW Business Awards span one of the largest geographical regions in the state, covering communities from Bathurst through to Broken Hill. Winners from the regional awards now progress to the NSW State Business Awards, to be held at the ICC Sydney in October.
The recognition marks the second consecutive year Vivability has placed at the Western NSW Business Awards, following CEO Nick Packham’s win in 2025 for Outstanding Business Leader (21 Employees and Over).
Vivability CEO Nick Packham said the awards reflect the collective effort of staff, supported employees, community partners and the broader Bathurst community.
“These awards belong to our entire organisation and the community that continues to stand behind what we do,” Mr Packham said. “We believe inclusive communities become stronger communities, and we’ve seen firsthand the impact that meaningful employment, social connection and genuine opportunity can have in people’s lives.”
Over the past 12 months, Vivability has continued to expand its impact through social enterprise, specialist accommodation, inclusive employment initiatives, and community programs, including Café VIVA, VIVA’s 3 Veg Farm, and The BIG Lunch community meal initiative.
Vivability currently employs more than 200 staff, with more than 11 per cent of its workforce identifying as people living with disability, almost six times the national workforce participation rate.
