2026 Business Awards

Do you go above and beyond to create memorable experiences for your customers? Is your team dedicated to providing attentive, reliable, and responsive service?

Customer service is the heart of every successful business. It’s where trust is built, relationships are strengthened, and loyalty is earned. This category celebrates businesses that excel in delivering outstanding customer care, from quick response times to resolving issues efficiently and creating innovative ways to enhance the customer experience.

Is your business breaking new ground with creative solutions, cutting-edge ideas, or unique ways of doing things? Are you driving change and leading the way in your industry with a spirit of innovation and a bold entrepreneurial mindset? 

Innovation is the engine that propels businesses forward, enabling them to adapt, grow, and thrive in a competitive world. This category celebrates businesses that aren't afraid to think outside the box, solve problems in inventive ways, and bring fresh ideas to life. Whether it's through new products, ground-breaking services, or streamlined processes, we want to hear about the innovations that set your business apart.

Is your business making strides towards a more sustainable world? Do you prioritise eco-friendly practices, reduce waste, conserve resources, or engage the community in environmental initiatives?

This category recognises businesses that are paving the way in environmental responsibility. Whether you're innovating to lower your carbon footprint, embracing sustainable sourcing, or leading by example in your community, your efforts matter! Sustainability isn’t just a goal; it’s essential to the future of our community, our local economy, and our planet.

Is your business making a positive impact in our local community? Do you prioritise hiring local people, collaborate with fellow businesses, or support local causes through donations or volunteer work?

Supporting the local community is more than just good business; it's about strengthening our local economy and creating a thriving, connected, and resilient community. This category celebrates businesses that go above and beyond to make a difference, whether through providing local jobs, partnering with other businesses, or leading community initiatives that have a lasting impact.

Is your business leading the way in fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace? Do you take pride in creating opportunities for First Peoples, culturally and linguistically diverse people (CALD) including refugees and asylum seekers, people with disability, women, young people, jobseekers and/or the LGBTIQA+ community?

A diverse and inclusive workplace strengthens not only individual businesses but the entire community. Embracing diversity means embracing new perspectives, fostering innovation, and creating a fairer and more equitable society for all. This category recognises businesses that are committed to supporting diversity within their workforce and engaging with the wider community through meaningful partnerships and initiatives. 

Are you running a thriving business from the comfort of your home or a small business with up to five employees? This award celebrates sole traders and registered businesses with up to five employees whose primary workplace is the owner’s home, co-working space, mobile operator or commercial premises. 

The Small Business Award shines a spotlight on those who have turned the challenges of working from home or in a small business into opportunities for excellence. 

Showcase your success in the areas of Customer Service, Innovation and Enterprise, Sustainability and Environment, Community Contribution, and Diversity and Inclusion.