The Australian Distillers Association Industry Awards recognise excellence across the Australian distilling industry, not only in the spirits we produce, but in how we build our businesses, support our people, contribute to our communities and strengthen our industry for the future.
These awards are designed to recognise distilleries and individuals at all stages of development. Entries will be judged relative to the scale, stage and resources of the business, ensuring that small and medium distilleries can stand alongside larger operators on a fair and equal footing.
Winners will be announced at the ADA Gala & Awards Dinner at the Australian Distillers Conference on 18th June 2026, in Adelaide.
Award Categories
Click on an award category below for more information or to enter.
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Key Dates
Entries Open: Wednesday 1 April 2026
Entries Close: Monday 27 April 2026, 6:00 PM
Judging Period: Late April to May 2026
Finalists Announced: 18 May 2026
Winners Announced: At the ADA Gala & Awards Dinner, 18 June 2026
How to Enter
Each award entry will require written responses addressing the criteria for that category.
Entries are submitted online via the awards entry form.
These awards are judged based on the written submission and supporting materials provided.
Product samples are not required and will not be accepted for judging. These awards recognise business achievement, innovation, sustainability, safety and industry contribution — not individual spirits.
For most categories, you will be asked to provide:
- A brief business overview
- A description of your project, initiative or business achievements
- The impact of your work
- Outcomes or results
- Your future plans or vision
- Optional supporting documents
Supporting material may include:
- Photos
- Diagrams or plans
- Sales or growth data
- Media coverage
- Awards
- Letters of support
- Training materials
- Sustainability data
- Safety documentation
You do not need to be a large business or have professionally prepared submissions to enter. Judges are looking for clear, honest submissions that demonstrate impact, progress and commitment to excellence.
Judging Process
The ADA Industry Awards are judged by a panel comprising members of the Australian Distillers Association Board and invited industry representatives with relevant expertise.
Judges are assigned to specific award categories, and any judge who is entering an award will not be involved in judging that category. All judges are required to declare any conflicts of interest prior to the commencement of judging.
Entries are assessed against the published criteria for each award. Judges will assess entries relative to the scale and stage of the business, ensuring fair consideration across businesses of all sizes.
All judging is conducted confidentially.
Judges’ decisions are final.
Need Help?
If you are unsure which category to enter or have questions about the process, please contact the Australian Distillers Association.
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