There’s something deliciously theatrical about awards season — the whispered predictions, the corsetry, the carefully selected speeches masquerading as spontaneity. And for Australia’s travel industry, it doesn’t get more glittering than the National Travel Industry Awards (NTIA), which returns to Brisbane this October with all the showmanship of a Royal Command Performance — minus the corgis.
This week, the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) pulled back the velvet curtain to reveal the nominees for the 2025 NTIAs, and with a record 1,720 peer nominations, it’s safe to say the excitement is building faster than a Ryanair boarding queue.
Yes, ladies and gentlemen, the tally is in, the names are out, and the industry is officially abuzz. It’s Brisbane or bust for hundreds of hopefuls, as The Star Brisbane prepares to host the black-tie gala on Saturday 18 October — a date already inked in diaries, bolded in Outlook, and mentally paired with a good dry cleaner.
📃 Full nominee list.
Categories Refined, Rivalries Reignited
In a welcome nod to relevance, the NTIA categories have had a bit of a tidy-up. Gone are the kitchen-sink nominations of yesteryear — this year’s leaner list of 36 categories feels precise, deliberate, and purpose-built to honour excellence across the board.
The net is cast wide from boutique travel agencies and home-based dynamos to wholesalers, tour operators, and even aviation heavyweights. And with the pandemic now a fading scar in the industry’s memory, the emphasis is squarely on those who’ve not only endured but excelled.
Your Vote, Your Voice — If You’re in the Game
The popularly elected categories — travel’s answer to a well-mannered talent quest — open for voting from noon AEST on Monday 21 July, closing Friday 8 August at 5 pm. In an admirable display of democratic integrity, voting is open to anyone working within the Australian travel industry, so long as you don’t vote for your own company (we see you).
The top five companies in each publicly voted category will be announced in mid-August. At the same time, the judged category finalists — those brave souls who dared submit to industry scrutiny — will be unveiled.
And let’s be honest, for those finalists? Just making the list is no small feat. As anyone who’s faced the NTIA submission portal at 11:58 pm on deadline day knows… It’s not for the faint-hearted.
Beyond Borders, Beyond Business Cards
Not content with a single spectacle, ATIA is backing up the awards with the Beyond Borders Summit, held on Friday, 17 October, just one day before the gala. The summit is set to bring together thought leaders, decision-makers, and that guy who always has 30 business cards in his jacket, ready for every handshake.
It’s a networking bonanza, yes — but more importantly, it’s a chance for cross-industry dialogue, reflection, and, dare we say, a bit of inspiration before the serious sparkle kicks in.
Dean Long: “A Vote for the Future”
ATIA’s Chief Executive, the ever-articulate Dean Long, was bullish about this year’s turnout.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to announce the NTIA nominees for this year’s awards, particularly on the back of such a record-breaking number of submissions,” Mr Long said, no doubt with his inbox still full of late entries.
“For the publicly voted categories, we’re inviting the industry to take part in recognising the individuals and businesses delivering exceptional service and innovation. Every vote helps shine a light on those setting the standard — not just for today, but for where we’re headed.”
And on the often-gruelling judged categories?
“We know how much time and care goes into these submissions. Just getting to this point is a serious accomplishment. I extend my sincere congratulations to every nominee. You are the best of us — and your work deserves this moment.”
Final Boarding Call for the Industry’s Finest
The NTIAs have never just been about trophies and thank-you speeches. They’re about identity — who we are, where we’ve been, and where we’re going as an industry.
It’s the rare event where rivals become cheer squads, where the big end of town shares a table with the indies, and where the stories of hard work, heartbreak, and humour are finally told with the recognition they deserve.
So go on — vote, celebrate, book your Brisbane accommodation early, and start polishing those heels (or boots, for the outback agents among us). This October, the NTIAs return with polish and purpose, but with the pride of an industry that’s rediscovered its voice.
And if you win? Don’t forget to thank your BDM.
By Sandra Jones
