Judging Process

Depending on the category, awards are judged by an anonymous site inspection, written submission, or Zoominterview.

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 the judges’ experience following the announcement of finalists and non-finalists. Finalists will receive their feedback after the awards ceremony on Monday, 18 May 2026.

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 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.

Prior to the judging period, AHA (Vic) will be in touch with each nominee via email, requesting that the nominee complete a Zoom interview.

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