COFFS woman Amy Riddle has been named a finalist in the Regional Woman of the Year Awards 2026.
The initiative recognises the accomplishments of an exceptional woman living in regional NSW who inspires and advances her community and contributes to the fabric of her local area.
Ms Riddle has lived and worked in Coffs Harbour since 1999 working in the city’s employment, youth services, and the Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service (WDVCAS) prior to joining Corrective Services NSW in 2017.
She is highly influential within the corrective services sector, having spent eight years working to reduce recidivism rates by having challenging and confronting conversations with offenders while supporting them to change anti-social behaviours.
As part of this commitment, she has built relationships with services that support vulnerable people and divert them from reoffending, as well as supporting them in identifying as victim-survivors.
Ms Riddle is a strong, inspirational role model for female offenders and victim-survivors as well as her colleagues.
Her dedication and efforts have been recognised by way of commendation from the Corrective Services Assistant Commissioner and the Coffs Clarence Police District Commander Superintendent.
Ms Riddle told News Of The Area she is honoured to be nominated as a finalist for the Regional category in the NSW Women of the Year Awards 2026.
“To be recognised at a regional level for work that is often complex, challenging and undertaken behind the scenes is deeply meaningful and appreciated,” she said.
“This nomination reflects not only my personal efforts, but also the collective commitment of my team, partner agencies, and the communities we serve to create safer communities and better outcomes for individuals, women and families.
“Being nominated reinforces the importance of continuing to challenge perceptions, elevate women’s voices and recognise the impact of leadership, collaboration and advocacy in areas that directly influence safety and justice across NSW.”
Ms Riddle is passionate about reducing recidivism, preventing domestic and family violence, strengthening community safety and supporting people – particularly women – to break cycles of criminal behaviour, trauma, and disadvantage.
“While Corrective Services has not traditionally been viewed as a women-led space, this is changing,” she said.
“I am committed to driving behavioural change, fostering respectful workplaces, and achieving safer outcomes for our community.”
In her leadership role, she is driven to present as a strong female role model, who is always willing to speak up and advocate for those who feel they can’t.
“Not only for my colleagues but also for female victim-survivors and offenders.
“I am also passionate about mentoring and supporting women and guide a diverse range of women across essential, client-facing roles, including Administration, Case Management, Community Corrections Officers and Team Leaders.”
Recipients in each of the five award categories will be revealed at the Women of the Year Awards ceremony on Thursday 5 March at the International Convention Centre, Sydney.
This is the flagship event of NSW Women’s Week 2026, held from Monday 2 March to International Women’s Day on Sunday 8 March.
By Andrea FERRARI
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