Download criteria
Begin by downloading the category criteria document. This contains the complete judging framework, including weightings for each assessment area. Understanding the criteria is the first step to writing a competitive submission. Download Criteria.
Submit a nomination
Complete the online nomination form before the closing date. The nomination captures core details about the nominee and their organisation, plus your selection of category. Submit a Nomination.
Lodge your submission
After nominating, you'll receive a link to the full submission portal. Here you provide the detailed evidence and responses that the judging panel will assess. Submissions are typically 1,000–2,500 words per category, supported by relevant attachments.
Shortlisting
Our internal review team checks every submission for completeness and eligibility. Submissions that meet the minimum requirements proceed to the full judging panel for evaluation. This stage typically takes 2–3 weeks.
Finalists announced
The judging panel convenes to review all shortlisted submissions against the published criteria. Finalists are selected based on the strength of their written submissions and supporting evidence. Finalists are announced on Friday, 9 October, 2026 on Accounting Times.
Winners determined
In the final stage, the judging panel deliberates and selects a winner in each category. The decision is based solely on the evidence presented in the submission – there is no interview component, ensuring a fair and transparent process.
Winners announced at the gala
Winners are revealed exclusively at the black-tie gala on Friday, 23 October 2026 at the Four Seasons Sydney.
Judging Principles
Independence
All judges are appointed independently and recuse themselves from categories where any conflict of interest exists.
Fairness
Every submission is evaluated against the same published criteria. Judges do not compare submissions against each other – they assess each one against the standard.
Evidence-Based
Winners are determined by the quality of written evidence, not reputation, tenure, or company size.
Confidentiality
All submissions and judging deliberations are treated as strictly confidential.
Transparency
The criteria and methodology are published in full so every entrant knows exactly what is being assessed.
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