Call for Expression of Interest: 2026 NT Export and Business Awards Judging Panel

CHAMBER NT BUSINESS NEWS

11 May 2026

 

 Following the launch of the 2026 Northern Territory Export and Business Awards, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Chamber NT) and the Northern Territory Government are now inviting Expressions of Interest (EOI) for this year's judging panel.

Building on the success of the 2025 Northern Territory Export and Business Awards, Chamber NT would like to invite judges from across the Territory, including regional and remote participation, and from diverse business backgrounds and industries to be part of the judging panel.

This is an opportunity to contribute your expertise and help recognise excellence in our local industries. Prior judging experience within similar Awards Programs will be highly regarded.

The judging panel’s role is to ensure a fair, transparent, and rigorous assessment of all nominations and to select finalists and winners in each award category. Judges will be led by two co-chairs and recognised and celebrated widely as professionals.

🔸 Minister for Trade, Business and Asian Relations, Robyn Cahill OAM, said “Territory businesses and exporters are among some of the most dynamic and innovative in Australia and we are committed to creating the right conditions so that businesses can continue to thrive.”

“The Export and Businesses Awards celebrate the best across our regions and showcase business that are leading, innovating and setting the standard in our local community.”

🔸 Chamber NT President Natalie Bell said “These awards showcase the very best of Territory business, and the judging panel plays a critical role in recognising the innovation, leadership and excellence that exists across our regions and industries. We encourage professionals from diverse backgrounds and all parts of the Territory to put their hand up and be part of this important initiative.”

“Judges will be led by two appointed co-chairs and the process conducted online through the official awards platform. Importantly, judges will undertake an initial induction program to ensure consistency and integrity throughout the judging process.” 

“As the premier awards of the Territory, the 2026 Northern Territory Export and Business Awards must be fair and transparent, with rigorous assessment of all nominations.”

🔸 Glen Hingley, Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber NT, said “A strong and diverse export and business sector is critical to the Northern Territory’s economic future. Our exporters and local businesses alike showcase Territory capability, whether on the global stage or here at home, and drive growth, jobs and confidence across our economy.”

“Official recognition through programs such as the NT Export and Business Awards is vital. Being judged the best in your sector by a high calibre panel of expert judges delivers a level of credibility and brand reputation that cannot be bought, and helps businesses build confidence, visibility and valuable connections with customers and partners.”

Timeline

  • Judges EOI open: 28 April - 15 May 2026
  •  Judges’ applications assessed: 18 May - 26 May 2026
  • Judges selected and announced: 27 May 2026
  • Awards shortlisting and judging: 20 July - 31 July 2026
  • Awards Ceremonies:
       ▸ Tennant Creek Regional Business Awards: 18 August 2026
       ▸ Alice Springs Regional Business Awards: 21 August 2026
       ▸ Nhulunbuy Regional Business Awards: 28 August 2026
       ▸ Katherine Regional Business Awards: 4 September 2026
       ▸ Greater Darwin Regional Business Awards: 11 September 2026
       ▸ Northern Territory Finals Gala Awards Ceremony: 23 October 2026'

 

To Become a Judge
Please send an email to [email protected] outlining your business and judging experience and submit by 15th of May 2026.


About the Awards
The 2026 Northern Territory Export and Business Awards are supported by the Northern Territory Government and delivered by the Chamber NT, bringing together the long-standing Export Awards and the well-established Business Excellence and Outstanding Customers Service Awards.

With a wide range of categories spanning export, business excellence and customer service, the Awards give businesses the opportunity to benchmark themselves against their peers, gain industry recognition and strengthen their profile - locally, nationally and internationally. Regional award programs will be held in Tennant Creek, Alice Springs, East Arnhem, Katherine and Greater Darwin, with regional winners progressing to the NT Gala Awards Ceremony in Darwin on 23 October.

 

 

 

 

 

Media Inquiries

For media inquiries, contact:
Glen Hingley, Chief Executive Officer, Chamber of Commerce Northern Territory
Phone: (08) 8982 8120  - Email: [email protected]
Website: www.chambernt.com.au

About Chamber of Commerce Northern Territory

 Since 1957, the Chamber of Commerce NT has been dedicated to supporting and promoting the interests of businesses across the Northern Territory. Through advocacy, resources, and initiatives, the Chamber NT works tirelessly to create a thriving business environment.

 Our team actively engages with our members to gather feedback on critical issues. Through extensive research, analysis, and consultation, we develop informed policy positions. Our advocacy efforts are tailored to each specific issue, allowing us to adopt a targeted approach that efficiently and effectively influences outcomes.

 As a founding member of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), we ensure that the voice of Territory business is heard at the national level through our active participation in ACCI and its initiatives.