The State and Territory tourism organisations each host annual Tourism Awards that form part of the Australian Tourism Awards. Nationally, the Awards process aims to recognise and promote excellence in the tourism industry.

The range of categories reflects the diversity of the industry and includes a specific award for wineries. However, wineries can also enter other categories that might be relevant. This can include a category for a new tourism development, restaurant or even retail tourism.

The Process and Benefits
The awards process is a submission-based competition and emphasis is applied on both the presentation and content of the submission as well as site visits in some cases. Winning a Tourism Award, Regional, State or National, can certainly have a positive effect on your business. The actual process of entering requires that you analyse your business objectives and outcomes closely and this in itself can provide you with important information. And like winning any award, there's the prestige and recognition that follows from your industry colleagues and customers that is invaluable.

Contact your Regional and State Tourism Organisations to find out about your local Awards programs. To be eligible to enter the Australian Tourism Awards you need to first enter and win your State Tourism Award. Refer to the Tools & Ideas area to find out more.