
2025 South Australian Premier’s Business and Export Awards
Nominations Open
The awards recognise and celebrate our local businesses’ outstanding contribution to our community’s social, environmental, and economic wellbeing.
All nominations are automatically considered for the prestigious major awards: The SA Business of the Year Award and The SA Exporter of the Year Award.
Winners of the export award categories are eligible for the National Australian Export Awards Ceremony in Canberra on 26 November 2025, with the exception of the SA Wine Exporter award being on state-level recognition.
This year, in collaboration with UniSA’s Australian Centre of Business Growth we will be awarding a business growth scholarship. This particular award will recognise one of the category finalist who didn’t win their category but noted by the judges as an exceptional business that should be rewarded.
The Business Growth Online Course is a digital platform that provides on demand access to the Australian Centre for Business Growth’s comprehensive library of business growth content, tools, resources, and more. The prize winner will be able to access short-form videos, tools, articles, content refreshers, resources, and interactive exercises offered in a self-paced learning style. Additional video content, coaching calls with a Growth Expert, and online masterclasses or real-time events will also be made available to this year’s winner. The Business Growth Online Scholarship is a six-month subscription valued at $9,000.
All South Australian businesses, irrespective of their membership status with the South Australian Business Chamber, are eligible to submit applications across multiple award categories. Each criterion response must not exceed 300 words.
Learn more about each of the award categories
Important Dates
- Award nominations opened — Tuesday 29 April
- Award nominations closed — Friday 13 June
- Judging – Monday 16 June – Friday 18 July
- Finalists announced — Tuesday 22 July
- Gala Award Dinner — Friday 29 August
Application Support
To support you with your application for the export awards, Austrade are holding Application Workshop Webinar on Thursday 8 May and First Nations Application Workshop on Thursday 15 May covering the following topics:
- Why you should apply for the Australian Export Awards
- What makes a good application
- Judging tips
- How to apply
- Q&A
Business awards
Nominate for 13 business award categories and The SA Business of the Year Award
Export awards
Nominate for 15 export award categories and The SA Exporter of the Year Award
Business Awards Categories
Beyond Border Business of the Year
This award is proudly sponsored by Viterra
The “Beyond Border Business of the Year” Award celebrates the remarkable achievements of businesses that trade across Australia, demonstrating exceptional innovation, resilience, and success in navigating the complexities of marketing across the country.
Criteria
- Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
- Examples of the benefit the business brings to the community sector in which they operate
- Information that demonstrates innovation and creativity
- Information that demonstrates strong financial performance (including grants and other funding)
- Information that demonstrates growth (i.e personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
- Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
- Upload any supporting documentation
Emerging Business of the Year
This award is proudly sponsored by Pitcher Partners
The “Emerging Business of the Year” Award honours the outstanding accomplishments of an ‘up and coming’ business that has demonstrated exceptional growth, innovation, and potential in its early stages of development. This Award celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit and visionary leadership of startups and young companies that are making significant strides in their respective industries, driving positive change, and inspiring future generations of entrepreneurs.
Criteria
- Information that demonstrates excellence in the category.
- Examples of the benefit the business brings to the community, sector in which they operate
- Information that demonstrates innovation and creativity
- Information that demonstrates strong financial performance (including grants and other funding)
- Information that demonstrates growth (i.e personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
- Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
- Upload any supporting documentation
ESG Business of the Year
Award for Environmental/Social Outcomes
The "ESG Business of the Year" award celebrates businesses demonstrating outstanding commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, making significant strides in creating positive environmental and social impacts. Recognising businesses pioneering sustainability practices, fostering eco-friendly innovation, and driving meaningful societal change, this award honours their exemplary efforts in achieving measurable outcomes that benefit both the planet and communities.
Criteria
- Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
- Examples of the benefit the business brings to the community sector in which they operate
- Information that demonstrates innovation and creativity
- Information that demonstrates strong financial performance (including grants and other funding)
- Information that demonstrates growth (i.e personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
- Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
- Upload any supporting documentation
Family Business of the Year
This award is proudly sponsored by Coopers
The "Family Business of the Year" award honours the enduring legacy, resilience, and commitment of multi-generational family-run enterprises. Recognising their strong values, innovation, and continuity across generations, this award celebrates the unique strengths and contributions of family businesses to the economy and their communities.
Criteria
- Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
- Examples of the benefit the business brings to the community sector in which they operate.
- Information that demonstrates innovation and creativity
- Information that demonstrates strong financial performance (including grants and other funding)
- Information that demonstrates growth (i.e personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
- Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
- Upload any supporting documentation
Indigenous Business of the Year
This award is proudly sponsored by Maxima
The "Indigenous Business of the Year" award recognises the entrepreneurship, cultural richness, and economic contributions of Indigenous-owned enterprises. Celebrating their innovation, connection to land, and community-focused approach, this award acknowledges businesses committed to preserving Indigenous heritage while driving economic growth.
Criteria
- Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
- Examples of the benefit the business brings to the community sector in which they operate
- Information that demonstrates innovation and creativity
- Information that demonstrates strong financial performance (including grants and other funding)
- Information that demonstrates growth (i.e personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
- Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
- Upload any supporting documentation
Innovative Business of the year
The "Innovative Business of the Year" award celebrates Australian enterprises at the forefront of innovation, distinguished for their pioneering ideas, cutting-edge technologies, and visionary strategies that redefine industry benchmarks. This accolade honours companies demonstrating remarkable impact, sustainability, and a commitment to a culture of innovation within their organisation.
Criteria
- Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
- Examples of the benefit the business brings to the community, sector in which they operate
- Information that demonstrates innovation and creativity
- Information that demonstrates strong financial performance (including grants and other funding)
- Information that demonstrates growth (i.e personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
- Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
- Upload any supporting documentation
Large Business of the Year
This award is proudly sponsored by Boost IT
Businesses with more than 200 FTE
The 'Large Business of the Year' award recognises the exceptional achievements and influential role of a significant enterprise within its industry landscape. This award highlights the company's substantial impact, outstanding leadership, and commitment to excellence. Emphasising industry impact, corporate leadership, community engagement, and sustainable practices, the recipient demonstrates remarkable performance, strategic vision, and a dedication to responsible business practices.
Criteria
- Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
- Examples of the benefit the business brings to the community sector in which they operate
- Information that demonstrates innovation and creativity
- Information that demonstrates strong financial performance (including grants and other funding)
- Information that demonstrates growth (i.e personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
- Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
- Upload any supporting documentation
Medium Business of the Year
This award is proudly sponsored by AHT Group
Businesses with 20 – 200 FTE
The "Medium Business of the Year" award celebrates the achievements of a thriving enterprise that embodies resilience, innovation, and impactful growth within its sector. Recognising the significant strides made by medium-sized companies, this award honours those demonstrating exceptional leadership, sustainable practices, and a strong commitment to driving industry progress and community engagement.
Criteria
- Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
- Examples of the benefit the business brings to the community, sector in which they operate.
- Information that demonstrates innovation and creativity
- Information that demonstrates strong financial performance (including grants and other funding)
- Information that demonstrates growth (i.e personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
- Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers, or suppliers
- Upload any supporting documentation
Not-for-Profit Business of the Year
This award is proudly sponsored by Star Discount Pharmacy
For charities, community organisations and other NFPs (Small, Medium and Large)
The "Not-for-Profit Business of the Year" award acknowledges the invaluable contributions of an organisation driven by a mission to create positive social impact and effect change. Celebrating the dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment of not-for-profit entities, this award recognises their exceptional efforts in serving communities, advocating for causes, and making a tangible difference.
Criteria
- Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
- Examples of the benefit the business brings to the community sector in which they operate
- Information that demonstrates innovation and creativity
- Information that demonstrates strong financial performance (including grants and other funding)
- Information that demonstrates growth (i.e personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
- Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
- Upload any supporting documentation
Regional Business of the Year
For businesses located outside of the greater Adelaide Metropolitan Area
The "Regional Business of the Year" award celebrates the ingenuity and resilience of businesses thriving outside Metropolitan Adelaide, showcasing their pivotal role in regional growth and development. Recognising the unique challenges and opportunities faced by regional businesses, this award honours those demonstrating exceptional innovation, community engagement and sustainable practices.
Criteria
- Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
- Examples of the benefit the business brings to the community sector in which they operate
- Information that demonstrates innovation and creativity
- Information that demonstrates strong financial performance (including grants and other funding)
- Information that demonstrates growth (i.e personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
- Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
- Upload any supporting documentation
Small Business of the Year
This award is proudly sponsored by EML
For businesses with less than < 20 FTE
The "Small Business of the Year" award honours the entrepreneurial spirit and outstanding achievements of a dynamic small-scale business. Celebrating innovation, dedication, and adaptability, this accolade recognises the remarkable impact and growth potential of small businesses. Emphasising leadership, customer focus, and innovative practices, this award highlights the essential role played by small businesses in driving economic vibrancy, fostering innovation, and contributing to their communities.
Criteria
- Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
- Examples of the benefit the business brings to the community sector in which they operate
- Information that demonstrates innovation and creativity
- Information that demonstrates strong financial performance (including grants and other funding)
- Information that demonstrates growth (i.e personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
- Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
- Upload any supporting documentation
The Governor’s Award for Business Achievement in Gender Equity
This award is proudly sponsored by the Governor of South Australia
The Governor’s Award for Business Achievement in Gender Equity celebrates businesses demonstrating excellence in promoting gender equity within their workplace.
This award recognises companies that show exceptional dedication to implementing inclusive policies, advancing gender equity, supporting professional development for all staff, and making tangible progress in closing gender gaps in representation and pay equity.
It highlights innovative strategies and/or community engagement initiatives that contribute to fostering a more equitable and inclusive business culture.
Criteria:
- Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
- Examples of policies and practices to promote gender equity in the workplace.
- Demonstration of strong leadership commitment to gender equity, with executives actively advocating for gender inclusivity
- Information providing evidence of the measurable impact of their gender equity initiatives, such as improved gender representation in leadership positions, reduced gender pay gaps, increased employee satisfaction and retention rates, and enhanced diversity and inclusion within the organisation.
- Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
- Upload any supporting documentation.
Workplace Culture and Wellbeing
This award is proudly sponsored by The Woohoo Company
This award recognises organisations that prioritise the creation of a positive, inclusive, and supportive work environment. This award celebrates companies that foster a culture of respect, collaboration, and open communication, ensuring that employees feel valued, engaged, and empowered. It honours those who implement innovative programs and policies that promote physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing, enhancing the overall employee experience. The recipient of this award demonstrates a commitment to nurturing a healthy, balanced work-life integration, with tangible efforts to improve employee satisfaction, morale, and productivity
Criteria
- Information that demonstrates excellence in the category
- Examples of workplace culture and wellbeing practices in the workplace
- Demonstration of strong leadership commitment advocating for better workplace culture and wellbeing
- Information providing evidence of the measurable impact the organisation has had implementing workplace culture and wellbeing
- Information that demonstrates growth (i.e. personal development, professional achievement, organisational expansion and societal impact)
- Details regarding recognition given by the industry, community, customers or suppliers
- Upload any supporting documentation
Export Awards Categories
Agribusiness, Food and Beverages
This award is proudly sponsored by Flinders Ports Holdings
For outstanding international success in the field of manufactured foods, beverages or agricultural products.
This includes primary production, forestry and fisheries and related services or technology.
Areas of focus include:
- clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
- export success and growth potential
- leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
- commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
- value and contribution of exports to business expansion
- overall commitment to growth in international business.
Creative Industries
For outstanding international success in any creative industry.
This includes music, visual and performing arts, fashion, design, film and television, digital media and content, animation, software and games, festival and event production, writing and publishing and creative services.
Areas of focus include:
- clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
- export success and growth potential
- leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
- commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
- value and contribution of exports to business expansion
- overall commitment to growth in international business.
e-Commerce
For outstanding international success selling goods or services to customers overseas via e-Commerce, including cross-border e-Commerce and online sales.
This includes sales to business (B2B), consumer (B2C) or government (B2G) via own website, online marketplaces and other e-Commerce channels.
Areas of focus include:
- clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
- export success and growth potential
- leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
- commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
- value and contribution of exports to business expansion
- overall commitment to growth in international business.
Emerging Exporter
For businesses that have been exporting for 3 years or less.
For outstanding export achievement by a business which has been exporting for three years or less.
This includes established and new businesses in any industry.
Areas of focus include:
- clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
- export success and growth potential
- leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
- commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
- value and contribution of exports to business expansion
- overall commitment to growth in international business.
First Nations Exporter
This new national category award is for outstanding international success by a First Nations business.
This includes First Nations businesses operating in any industry, who have been exporting for 3 years or more. (If you have only been exporting for up to 3 years, you must apply for the Emerging Exporter Award).
Areas of focus include:
- clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
- export success and growth potential
- leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
- commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
- value and contribution of exports to business expansion
- overall commitment to growth in international business.
International Education and Training
This award is proudly sponsored by Mayne Pharma
For outstanding international success in the field of education and training.
This includes higher education, vocational education and training, transnational education, online learning, curriculum development and EdTech.
Areas of focus include:
- clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
- export success and growth potential
- leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
- commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
- value and contribution of exports to business expansion
- overall commitment to growth in international business.
International Health
This award is proudly sponsored by CMAX
For outstanding international success in the fields of health, medical or wellbeing.
This includes biotechnology, biosecurity, medical technology, digital health, e-health, aged care, disability, complementary health, pharmaceuticals and related services.
Areas of focus include:
- clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
- export success and growth potential
- leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
- commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
- value and contribution of exports to business expansion
- overall commitment to growth in international business.
Manufacturing and Advanced Materials
This award is proudly sponsored by Export Finance Australia
For outstanding international success in manufacturing, engineering or advanced materials development.
This includes advanced manufacturing and materials technologies, engineering, design and production.
Areas of focus include:
- clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
- export success and growth potential
- leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
- commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
- value and contribution of exports to business expansion
- overall commitment to growth in international business.
Professional Services
This award is proudly sponsored by IP Partners
For outstanding international success in the field of professional services.
This includes legal, accounting, administration and support services, business management and consultancy, marketing services, franchising and licensing, engineering, financial and insurance, market research, translation services and tourism and business events.
Areas of focus include:
- clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
- export success and growth potential
- leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
- commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
- value and contribution of exports to business expansion
- overall commitment to growth in international business.
Regional Exporter
This award is proudly sponsored by EML
For businesses located outside of the greater Adelaide metropolitan area.
For outstanding international success by a regional business.
This includes businesses whose head office or majority of operations are based in a non-metropolitan location.
Areas of focus include:
- clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
- export success and growth potential
- leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
- commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
- value and contribution of exports to business expansion
- overall commitment to growth in international business.
Resources and Energy
For outstanding international success in the resources and energy sectors.
This includes businesses involved in the production, processing or value adding of extractive resources or the provision of energy or resources related equipment, services or technology.
Areas of focus include:
- clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
- export success and growth potential
- leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
- commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
- value and contribution of exports to business expansion
- overall commitment to growth in international business.
Small Business
This award is proudly sponsored by the Department of State Development - South Australian Government
For outstanding international success by a small business.
This includes businesses with total annual turnover not exceeding A$10 million.
Areas of focus include:
- clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
- export success and growth potential
- leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
- commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
- value and contribution of exports to business expansion
- overall commitment to growth in international business.
Sustainability and Green Economy
This award is proudly sponsored by Adelaide Airport
For outstanding international success in the Green Economy.
This includes the provision of green economy technology or capabilities such as environmental solutions, clean energy, sustainable materials, renewables, waste and water management, green building, smart cities or businesses committed to sustainable business practices.
Areas of focus include:
- clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
- export success and growth potential
- leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
- commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
- value and contribution of exports to business expansion
- overall commitment to growth in international business.
SA Wine Exporter
This awards recognises exceptional international exporting success by wineries in South Australia that produce and develop wine.
This award highlights the innovative and high-quality products originating from the region, showcasing the excellence and diversity of the South Australian wine industry on the global stage.
Areas of focus include:
- clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
- export success and growth potential
- leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
- commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
- value and contribution of exports to business expansion
- overall commitment to growth in international business.
*This is a South Australian award only, therefore will not qualify for a place in the national export awards.
Technologies
This award is proudly sponsored by the Department of State Development - South Australian Government
For outstanding international success in the field of information technology, digital technologies, software, hardware or digital services.
This includes solutions utilising cloud-based platforms, artificial intelligence, machine learning, Internet of Things, augmented reality, autonomous systems, robotics, quantum, virtual reality, data collaboration and management tools, fintech, cyber security and/or blockchain with civilian, defence, space and/or other industry applications.
Areas of focus include:
- clear demonstration of sustainable competitive advantage
- export success and growth potential
- leadership and innovation in international business and marketing strategies
- commitment to diversity, inclusion, sustainability or positive social impact
- value and contribution of exports to business expansion
- overall commitment to growth in international business.
2025 awards are proudly supported by


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