After extensive consultation with industry around the country, all categories in the state and national tourism awards have been tweaked, including a reduced word count on entries – 4,000 to 7,500 words, down from 10,000 words – simplified questions and better guidance to help entrants produce their best possible submission.
Entrants in the business events category are asked to outline what makes them outstanding in business and product development, marketing, customer service, sustainability and responsible business practices.
NSW venues who wish to be in the running to be crowned the state’s best business events venue must submit their nomination by this Friday, with full submissions due in August.
The nominations due this week are only 100 words.
“We’re lucky to have such diversity in our business event venues, from inland retreats and historic theatres to ocean-side function spaces, purpose-built convention centres, converted warehouses and outdoor garden areas,” said NSW Tourism Association CEO, Natalie Godward.
“These venues deliver memorable experiences to corporate travellers and delegates every day.
“We want to showcase their work, the immersive moments they create, the sustainability initiatives they champion and the partnerships they forge across the tourism landscape.
“The nomination process, which is quick and easy, offers a structured framework to assess business performance, benchmark against leading operators and enhance visibility in a competitive market.
“For venues seeking to build trust with stakeholders, clients and industry partners, becoming a finalist or winner provides a mark of distinction that can elevate your profile and impact.”
Founded just last year, the NSW Tourism Association managed the state tourism awards for the first time in 2024.
The association said only a few submissions in the business events venue category were received last year, with none meeting the standard of excellence required to progress to finalist stage.
For business events venues in other Australian regions, nominations remain open for Canberra and the NT, with other states having closed their nomination process and moved on to the submission writing period.
In order to be crowned the best business event venue nationally, venues must first nominate and win the category in their home state, before battling it out with the other state and territory winners at a national level.
State and territory awards ceremonies will take place late this year, with the national awards ceremony taking place in early 2026 in Fremantle, Western Australia.
