Judging Process

Depending on the category, awards are judged by an anonymous site inspection, written submission, or Zoom/Teams interview.

Each category entrant will receive feedback on how they or their property performed, relative to winning hotels and individuals.

If you are a non-finalist, you will receive feedback on your judging by Monday 24 March 2025. Finalist will receive their feedback post the awards ceremony on Monday 19 May 2025.

All judging is completed by a third-party organisation that is completely independent of AHA (Vic).

Dining, General, Accommodation, Gaming and Wagering Awards: Anonymous property visit.

Performance Awards: Assessment of written submission.

*Best Function and Event Space no longer requires a written submission. This category is subject to an anonymous property visit where judges will request a site visit with a staff member, posing as if they would like to book an event at your venue. If you wish to go forward into the National Awards for Excellence, you will be required to submit a written submission.*

Employee Awards Categories:

Venues must nominate their employee into the appropriate category. They must submit the nominee's CV and headshot at the time of nomination.

As nominations are received, AHA (Vic) will be in touch with each nominee via email, requesting that the nominee complete a Zoom/Teams interview.

More details, including questions provided in the interview, will be provided at this point.