Excellence in Defence Industry Awards
A highlight of NT Defence Week is the Chief Minister’s Awards for Excellence in the Defence Industry. The Awards are an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the individuals and businesses driving capability, innovation, and growth across the Northern Territory’s defence sector. These awards celebrate the people and organisations that go above and beyond - strengthening local industry, supporting Defence operations, strengthening our veteran community and contributing to the Territory’s strategic importance.
Nominate your business and be recognised as a leader in excellence, innovation, and impact within the NT’s defence industry. This is your chance to showcase your achievements, elevate your profile, and highlight the role you play in building a stronger, more resilient Defence in the North.
Nominations close 27 February 2026.
Finalists will receive 2 tickets to attend the Australian Industry and Defence Network (AIDN) NT Awards and Gala Dinner on Tuesday 28 April 2026. Awards will be presented by Chief Minister, the Hon Lia Finocchiaro and Minister for Veterans, the Hon Jinson Charls.
Recognise excellence in the Territory’s defence industry — nominate now and celebrate your contribution.
Excellence in Defence Industry Award categories
- Chief Minister’s Award for Excellence in the Defence Industry - Large Business: Honouring a business that demonstrates overall excellence in the defence sector.
- Chief Minister’s Award for Excellence in the Defence Industry - Indigenous Business: Recognising an Indigenous business making significant contributions to the defence industry.
- Chief Minister’s Award for Excellence in the Defence Industry - Small Business: Celebrating a small business with a big impact on the defence industry.
Nominate for a defence industry award
NT Veteran Award categories
- Veteran employer of the year: Honouring businesses that demonstrate exceptional commitment to employing members of the veteran community.
- Veteran employee of the year: Recognising a veteran who has significantly contributed to their organisation using their ADF skills.
- Veteran community member owned business of the year: Celebrating a veteran community-owned business making a strong impact in the NT.
- Veteran community partner employee of the year: Recognising the partner of a veteran who has significantly contributed to their organisation.
AIDN NT Awards
- AIDN NT Young Achiever Award: This award recognises the next generation of talent shaping the defence industry in the Northern Territory. This prestigious award celebrates young professionals who demonstrate exceptional skill, innovation, and leadership in their field. Their contributions drive industry growth, inspire future leaders, and strengthen Australia’s sovereign capability.
- The AIDN Defence Industry Contribution Excellence Award: Recognises individuals over the age of 30 who have demonstrated exceptional commitment, expertise, and impact within Australia’s defence industry. It celebrates those whose sustained contributions strengthen sovereign capability, advance industry growth, and support national security outcomes.
- The AIDN NT Young Achiever Award and Defence Industry Contribution Excellence Award are open to individuals employed by an AIDN Member company. Please contact AIDN at info@aidn.org.au to find out more about AIDN Membership.
Nominations for AIDN NT awards close: 5pm, Tuesday 31 March 2026.
Nominate for an AIDN NT Young Achiever Award PDF (2.8 MB)
Nominate for an AIDN Defence Industry Contribution Award PDF (638.5 KB)