The Australian Business Events Association (ABEA) has today announced the finalists for the 2026 Australian Business Events Awards.
This year’s finalists represent the breadth of Australia’s business events sector, with 23 award categories celebrating achievements from major conferences and exhibitions to technology innovation, sustainability initiatives and individual excellence.
The 2026 awards program has undergone several changes following industry feedback, including clearer, more outcome-focused judging criteria and the introduction of a new Best Corporate Event category, recognising excellence in corporate-led events such as company conferences and product launches.
The Contribution to Industry Award, ABEA’s highest individual honour, has also been updated to strengthen its focus on peer recognition, celebrating those who have made a lasting contribution to the sector.
ABEA CEO Melissa Brown said this year’s finalists reflect the exceptional work being delivered across Australia’s business events industry.
“It’s fantastic to see the calibre of entries coming through this year and the incredible work happening right across our industry.
“Our finalists represent the very best of Australian business events, and their achievements demonstrate the creativity and expertise that make our sector so strong.
“A sincere thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s Awards and took the time to prepare a submission. Congratulations to all our finalists. We look forward to recognising and celebrating your achievements in Adelaide this December,” said Brown.
The winners will be announced at the Australian Business Events Awards Gala Evening on Wednesday 2 December 2026, from 6.30 pm at the Adelaide Convention Centre, marking the closing night of the ABEA 2026 Conference and Awards.
