Categories – The Hospitality NT Aristocrat Technologies

*Winners may be eligible to receive entry into the 2026 AHA National Awards for Excellence.

EMPLOYEE AWARDS

All entries must be received by midday Thursday 2nd April 2026. All nominations must include a high quality photo of the employee nominated, in order for us to promote the Awards.

Judges will assess the written submission for each nominee, including:

Your current position and the venue you work at. Details of roles and responsibilities and the size and style of your venue.
Length of service.
Employee’s service delivery standards. Approach to customer service and any feedback from customer and or managers.
Teamwork and contribution to the workplace.
Examples of your contributions to the industry. This could include involvement in apprenticeships, engagement with school career fairs, or participation in industry associations and events.
Training and relevant experience – can be anything from qualifications, volunteering, formal training, supervisory roles assisting less experienced staff etc.
Dedication to career development and self improvement
What are your top two career accomplishments so far.
What achievements are you most proud of?

During the judging process the judges may seek additional information or verify the nominee’s work history and overall performance.

Please note all winners will be announced at the Awards for Excellence on Tuesday 26^th May 2026 at the Darwin Ski Club. It is a condition of entry that if you are nominated for an Award, you must be present at the Awards to receive the Award if successful.

1. FRONT OF HOUSE CUSTOMER SERVICE*

This category recognises a Front of House Employee who demonstrates service excellence, who is friendly, professional and knowledgeable. It is open to those employees that have direct contact primarily with customers while performing their everyday duties. Roles include but are not limited to:

Front Desk reception (accommodation, clubs, concierge, porters).
Hosts (restaurant, club or bar).
Gaming Staff (tables, pokies, keno).
Food and Beverages, attendants, bar staff, waitresses and waiters, bottle shop attendant.
Function Staff.

Nomination Criteria:

Employee must be nominated by his/her employer;
Employee must have been employed by the same employer for no less than 6 months prior to nomination;
Employee can include Supervisors and Duty Managers, however cannot be in higher management positions, including General Managers, Venue Managers, Operations Manager;
Employee must submit a CV/resume and can address the criteria in the purple box above in their submission.

2. APPRENTICE/TRAINEE OF THE YEAR

The Apprentice/Trainee of the Year Award is awarded to an individual who is undertaking an apprenticeship/ traineeship and has been outstanding in all aspects of their training.

Nomination Criteria:

Apprentice /Trainee nominee must be currently undertaking their traineeship or apprenticeship at the time of their nomination;
The traineeship or apprenticeship must be due for completion after 1 July 2025.
Employee must be nominated by his/her employer;
Employee must submit a CV/resume and can address the criteria in the purple box above in their submission.

3. MARKETING/SALES/ EVENTS*

This category recognises an employee who has demonstrated outstanding skill and professionalism in marketing, sales, and events, contributing significantly to the success and profile of their venue.

Nomination Criteria:

Employee must be nominated by his/her employer;
Employee must have been employed by the same employer for no less than 6 months prior to nomination;
Employee cannot be in higher management positions such as General Managers.
Employee must submit a CV/resume and can address the criteria in the purple box above in their submission.

4. INDUSTRY RISING STAR OF THE YEAR

This category is to reward an employee who has displayed professional excellence within their venue and the industry. This individual award is judged on on-going development undertaken by the individual, commitment to the industry, ambition, and career aspirations.

Nomination Criteria:

The candidate must be nominated by his/her employer or management.
The candidate must have been employed for no less than 6 months prior to nomination.
The candidate must be 30 years or younger on the date of the submission/nomination.
Employee must submit a CV/resume and can address the criteria in the purple box above in their submission.

PUBS & TAVERNS DIVISION

5. OUTSTANDING PUB COMMUNITY SERVICE & ACHIEVEMENT*

This category is to recognise excellence by a hotel in providing a wide range of support for their local community.

Please note: Judging for this category will be based solely on a written submission.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Active sponsorship & support of community groups
Promotion of hospitality industry to community and groups
Demonstrate the high profile the hotel has achieved through community work; e.g. copy of correspondence to local newspapers, Members of Parliament, local councils, etc.
Evidence of financial assistance to the community
Participation in the local community eg. Fundraisers, recycling initiatives, clean-up days, providing stock to local community events

6. BEST REDEVELOPED PUB*

This category recognises innovation and effectiveness in a redeveloped general division hotel.

Please note: The judging process for this category will rely on a written submission. An anonymous site visit may also be conducted.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Innovation in refurbishment
Quality finish and attention to detail
Refurbishment is appropriate to clientele
Re-styling led to improved staff efficiency
Financial growth from redevelopment
Overall appearance
Environmental sustainability

7. BEST MARKETED PUB*

This category recognises venue excellence regarding the approach taken to market their Hotel via a number of effective forms of marketing and communication. The judges are looking for innovation, relevance and effectiveness in delivery.

Please note: Judging for this category will be based on a written submission.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Research and planning to achieve marketing strategy
Marketing activity relevant to size of hotel operation
Consistency of in-house marketing
Effective website and social platforms
Effective use of social and digital media
Quality of promotion collateral
Evidence of effectiveness of marketing activity

8. BEST PUB STYLE ACCOMMODATION*

This category recognises hotels that have accommodation offered as part of the venue. It may be a standalone offer, or in the same building but must be as part of the overall hotel. It may offer guests shared facilities and must provide food and beverage for guests.

Please note: Nominees will be judged on an anonymous site visit conducted between April and May 2026. TripAdvisor ratings and comments will also be taken into consideration.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Hotel Facilities, ambience and décor
Accuracy of Reservations
Customer service throughout the venue
Guest Room facilities
Bathroom facilities
Housekeeping and general cleanliness
Food and Beverage offerings at venue
Environmental sustainability
Overall customer experience

9. BEST PUB GAMING VENUE*

This category recognises excellence in Gaming Rooms within a Hotel. It places significant emphasis on the overall quality of the customer experience, including food, beverages and customer service specifically regarding the gaming facilities area of the hotel.

Please note: Nominees will be judged solely on an anonymous site visit during April and May 2026.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Professionalism and outstanding customer service
Staff neat, in clean attire and well groomed
Staff Gaming knowledge and ability to assist gaming patrons
Lounge/seating area available for gaming patrons
Bar area in close proximity to gaming areas
In-house promotions and communication activities
Effective Signage
Smoking facilities
Evidence of Responsible Gaming Service
Range and quality of food and beverages within Hotel
Décor and design characteristics of venue
Condition of furniture & electrical
Popularity of the establishment
Comfortable and positive experience for customers
Ambience – audio visual, lighting, music
Hygiene and cleanliness

10. BEST PUBLIC BAR PRESENTATION & SERVICE*

This category will recognise a hotel bar that offers a memorable visit to patrons with an emphasis on excellence in customer service. The judged area within the overall customer experience will form part of the judging criteria.

Please note: Nominees will be judged on an anonymous site visit conducted between April and May 2026. TripAdvisor ratings and comments will also be taken into consideration.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Professionalism and outstanding customer service
Staff neat, in clean attire and well groomed
Bar presentation to be of the highest standard
Efficiency of bar operators
Variety of beverages
Availability of a selection of food
Range of promotional products and activities
Décor and design characteristics
Condition of furniture and electrical
Popularity of the establishment
Comfortable and positive experience for customers
Ambience – audio visual, lighting, music
Hygiene and cleanliness

ACCOMMODATION HOTEL DIVISION

11. BEST REDEVELOPED ACCOMMODATION HOTEL*

This category recognises innovation and effectiveness in a redeveloped accommodation division hotel.

Please note: The judging process for this category will rely on a written submission. An anonymous site visit may also be conducted.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Innovation in refurbishment
Quality of finish and attention to detail
Refurbishment is appropriate to clientele
Re-styling led to improved staff efficiency
Financial growth from redevelopment
Overall appearance
Environmental sustainability

12. OUTSTANDING ACCOMMODATION HOTEL COMMUNITY SERVICE & ACHIEVEMENT*

This category is to recognise excellence by an Accommodation Hotel in providing a wide range of support for their local community.

Please note: Judging for this category will be based solely on a written submission.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Active sponsorship and support of community groups
Promotion of hospitality industry to community and groups
Demonstrate the high profile the hotel has achieved through community work; e.g. copy of correspondence to local newspapers, Members of Parliament, local councils, etc.
Evidence of financial assistance to the community
Participation in the local community eg. Fundraisers, recycling initiatives, clean-up days, providing stock to local community events

13. BEST MARKETED ACCOMMODATION HOTEL*

Please note: Judging for this category will be based on a written submission.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Research and planning to achieve marketing strategy
Marketing activity relevant to size of hotel operation
Consistency of in-house marketing
Effective website and social platforms
Effective use of social and digital media
Quality of promotion collateral
Evidence of effectiveness of marketing activity

14. BEST MID RANGE ACCOMMODATION*

(2 ½ – 3 ½ star) – includes Apartment Style Accommodation

This category recognises hotels offering quality accommodation and service at the level specified. There is a high emphasis placed on customer service and the quality and décor of the accommodation. The venue must offer a hotel bar on-site for patrons to enjoy.

Please note: Nominees will be judged on an anonymous site visit conducted between April and May 2026. TripAdvisor ratings and comments will also be taken into consideration.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Hotel Facilities, ambience and décor
Accuracy of Reservations
Customer service throughout the venue
Guest Room facilities
Bathroom facilities
Housekeeping and general cleanliness
Food and Beverage offerings at the venue
Breakfast Offerings
Environmental sustainability
Hotel Bar facilities and service
Overall customer experience

15. BEST SUPERIOR ACCOMMODATION*

This category recognised hotels offering superior style accommodation. Nominees in this category will demonstrate a range of services and facilities which are deemed to be above average in quality. Special attention will be given to service and those little extras that make the guest experience a memorable one.

Please note: Nominees will be judged on an anonymous site visit conducted between April and May 2026 TripAdvisor ratings and comments will also be taken into consideration.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Hotel Facilities, ambience and décor
Accuracy of Reservations
Customer service throughout the venue
Guest Room facilities
Bathroom facilities
Housekeeping and general cleanliness
Food and Beverage offerings at the venue
Breakfast Offerings
Environmental sustainability
Hotel Bar facilities and service
Overall customer experience

16. BEST BACKPACKER/BUDGET ACCOMMODATION*

This category recognised venues offering backpacker style budget accommodation. Nominees in this category will demonstrate a range of services and facilities that appeal to the backpacker or
youth/adventure demographic.

Please note: Nominees will be judged on an anonymous site visit conducted between April and May 2026. TripAdvisor ratings and comments will also be taken into consideration.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Facilities, ambience and décor
Reservation services including accuracy
Customer service throughout the venue
Housekeeping and general cleanliness
Food and Beverage offerings at the venue
Environmental sustainability
Overall customer experience

CLUBS DIVISION

(Please note that Club winners are not eligible for any category in the AHA National Awards).

17. OUTSTANDING CLUB COMMUNITY SERVICE & ACHIEVEMENT

This category is to recognise excellence by a Club in providing a wide range of support for their local community.

Please note: Judging for this category will be based solely on a written submission.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Active Sponsorship and support of community groups
Promotion of hospitality industry to community groups
Demonstrate the high profile the Club has achieved through community work; e.g. copy of correspondence to local newspapers, Members of Parliament, local councils, etc.
Evidence of financial assistance to the community
Participation in the local community eg. Fundraisers, recycling initiatives, clean-up days, providing stock to local community events

18. BEST REDEVELOPED CLUB

This category recognises innovation and effectiveness in a redeveloped club

Please note: The judging process for the category will rely on a written submission. An anonymous site visit may also be conducted.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Innovation in refurbishment
Quality of finish and attention to detail
Refurbishment is appropriate to clientele
Re-styling led to improved staff efficiency
Financial growth from redevelopment
Overall appearance
Environmental sustainability

19. BEST MARKETED CLUB

This category recognises venue excellence regarding the approach taken to market their Club via a number of effective forms of marketing and communication. The judges are looking for innovation, relevance and effectiveness in delivery.

Please note: Judging for this category will be based on a written submission.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Research and planning to achieve marketing strategy
Marketing activity relevant to size of Club operation
Consistency of in-house marketing
Effective website and social platforms
Effective use of social and digital media
Quality of promotion collateral
Evidence of effectiveness of marketing activity

20. BEST CLUB GAMING VENUE

This category recognises excellence in Gaming Rooms within a club. It places significant emphasis on the overall quality of the customer experience, including food, beverages and customer service specifically regarding the gaming facilities area of the Club.

Please note: Nominees will be judged solely on an anonymous site visit during April and May 2026.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Professionalism and outstanding customer service
Staff neat, in clean attire and well groomed
Staff Gaming knowledge & ability to assist gaming patrons
Lounge/seating area available for gaming patrons
Bar area in close proximity to gaming areas
In-house promotions and communication activities
Effective Signage
Smoking facilities
Evidence of Responsible Gaming Service
Range and quality of food and beverages within venue
Décor and design characteristics of venue
Condition of furniture and electrical
Popularity of the establishment
Comfortable and positive experience for customers
Ambience – audio visual, lighting, music
Hygiene and cleanliness

21. BEST CLUB BAR PRESENTATION & SERVICE

This category will recognise a Club that offers a memorable visit to patrons with an emphasis on excellence in customer service. The judged area within the Club will be specific to the bar area, however the overall customer experience will form part of the judging criteria.

Please note: Nominees will be judged on an anonymous site visit conducted between April and May 2026 TripAdvisor ratings and comments may also be taken into consideration.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Professionalism and outstanding customer service
Staff neat, in clean attire and well groomed
Bar presentation to be of the highest standard
Efficiency of bar operators
Variety of beverages
Availability of a selection of food
Range of promotional products and activities
Décor and design characteristics
Condition of furniture and electrical
Popularity of the establishment
Comfortable and positive experience for customers
Ambience – audio visual, lighting, music
Hygiene and cleanliness

ALL DIVISIONS

22. BEST ALL ABILITIES VENUE*

This category recognises that patrons have different accessibility needs. A truly accessible and inclusive venue goes beyond the built environment and considers the varying needs and greater inclusion of people with disability.

Please note: Judging for this category will be based on a written submission. An anonymous site visit may also be conducted.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Venue facilities such as accessible parking, clear pathways and entrance areas. Pool, gym and sauna accessible.
Gaming, outdoor areas and ATM accessible. Suitable bathrooms and amenities.
Bookings & reservations. Reservation process, online or other, allows the ability to request for access needs, quieter area, close to elevator etc
Staff services. Are staff trained to assist guests with access requirements? Do staff understand different ways to communicate with people with disability.
Guest rooms facilities and inhouse food services
Marketing and advertising of the venue accessibility

23. BEST TOURISM INITIATIVE*

This category recognises a tourism initiative or product that is unique and adds value to the industry as well as the local community. The initiative will encourage visitation and provide visitors with an overall great, hospitable experience.

Please note: Judging for this category will be based solely on a written submission.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Innovation in tourism products and initiatives
Highlight any partnerships with local businesses that contributed to its success
Effective marketing and promotional strategies should be in place to support the initiative.
Demonstrated commitment to excellence in customer service
Evidence of success and measurable outcomes. This could include statistical data, visitor feedback, or awards/recognition received for the initiative.

24. OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT IN TRAINING*

This category recognises venues that have a demonstrated a commitment to improving customer services and experiences through employee training.

Please note: Judging for this category will be based solely on a written submission.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Contribution to professionalism in the hospitality industry
Training initiatives meet industry needs
Evidence of internal training, for example schedules and training manuals
Conducting internal and external training
Retention of staff as a result of initiatives
Level of multi-skilled staff as direct result of training
Assessment of training and skills

25. BEST NEW VENUE

This category recognises innovation and effectiveness in a new venue.

Describe and demonstrate your new venue addressing the following points:

Works are completed and has been operating for a minimum of 3 months at time of nomination (and opened after 1 May 2025)
Architectural innovation, decor and design features, quality of finishes and attention to detail
Ambience, lighting, music
High level of customer service
Popularity of the venue
Range of food and beverages
Environmental and energy saving considerations

26. BEST DRAUGHT BEER QUALITY*

This award recognises the Northern Territory venue that serves the best beer on tap.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

50% Site inspection of back of house areas & coolrooms
50% Anonymous site inspection

**To be eligible to enter this award, venues MUST comply with AS5034 (installation and use of inert gases
for beverage dispensing). Please provide a photo of both the venues AS 5034 compliant gas board and c02 monitor readout as part of nomination submission.

Nomination Criteria:

OH&S
Do you have a working CO2 monitor installed?
Is your gas board AS5034 compliant?
Are your gas regulators vented to atmosphere?
If beer pumps are fitted, are the beer pumps exhausts vented to atmosphere?
Cellar/Keg room and beer system cleanliness and management
Cool room cleanliness
Keg coupler, cellar boy, beer lines and tap cleanliness/functionality
Keg freshness, stock rotation and stored correctly
Glass management
Glass cleanliness
Glass washer cleanliness and correct chemicals
Beer presentation/staff and service
Pouring technique
In glass appearance and temperature
True to type (taste, aroma, texture)

27. BEST RETAIL LIQUOR OUTLET*

This category recognises a hotel offering a customer focused, well-stocked and well-designed Retail Liquor space. Innovation and excellence in customer service are held in high regard.

Please note: Nominees will be judged solely on an anonymous site visit between April and May 2026 and venues from both Darwin and regional areas are eligible.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

General layout and stock presentation of venue
Decor and design characteristics of venue
Hygiene and cleanliness
Effective signage
Variety of stock
Wine tasting facilities
Facilities and stock meet local needs
Professionalism and outstanding customer service
Staff neat, clean attired and well groomed
Staff knowledge and ability to assist patrons
Condition of furniture, fittings & electrical
Telephone manner of staff

28. BEST FAMILY FRIENDLY VENUE

This category recognises a venue offering a family friendly environment which provides dining and entertainment facilities for the whole family.

Please note: Nominees will be judged on an anonymous site visit conducted between April and May 2026. TripAdvisor ratings and comments will also be taken into consideration.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas and their suitability to families including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Decor, design, characteristics, lighting, music
Popularity of the establishment
Range of promotional products and activities
Growth factor and marketing
Evidence of a variety of activities and equipment – high chairs, games or play rooms, kids corner, covered play areas
Offer of family friendly entertainment – activities at table, colouring in, movies, special events (jumping castle, face painting, petting zoo)
Children’s interests catered for – special meals, staff interaction
Hygiene and cleanliness of premises

29. BEST SPORTING ENTERTAINMENT VENUE*

This category recognises excellence in venues with a specific emphasis on sport as a primary form of entertainment.

Please note: Finalists will be judged on an anonymous site visit conducted during April and May 2026.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Venue – decor, cleanliness and facilities
Staff & Service – professional, well presentation and efficient. Staff knowledge of sporting entertainment offered
Food & Beverage – selection, price, diversity
Integration of sporting vision throughout the venue
Effective promotion of events and in-house facilities
Sporting theme relative to target market
Integration of sporting vision
Relationships with sporting teams and or clubs
Displays of sporting memorabilia on-site

30. BEST LATE NIGHT VENUE*

This category recognises excellence in a venue that offers late trading hours and unique services attracting late night patrons.

Please note: Nominees will be judged solely on an anonymous site visit conducted during April and May 2026.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Creative and unique elements that set it apart from other late-night venues. This could include innovative drink offerings, exclusive events, signature experiences, or themed nights that draw in patrons.
Entertainment – live music, DJ sets, themed events, or engaging activities that make the venue a destination for those seeking nightlife entertainment
Distinctive features of the venue (e.g. decor, lighting, design)
Music, lighting, sound, stage and dance floor facilities and special effects
Promotion and marketing of venue
Patron security and responsible service practices
Range of beverages and sufficient snacks available

31. BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE*

This category recognises excellence in a venue that offers patrons live music entertainment options.

Please note: Finalists will be judged solely on an anonymous site visit conducted during April and May 2026. To assist with judging, venues should state on which night/s live music entertainment is provided and the name of the room/area to be judged.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Evidence of live entertainment on a regular basis
exceptional atmosphere for live performances, including acoustics, lighting, stage design, and seating arrangements and dancefloor that enhance the music experience.
Cleanliness of premises
Staff friendliness and courteous
Knowledge of Responsible Serving of Alcohol
Outstanding presentation & customer service
Staff knowledge of entertainment offered
Supports artists performing original material
Variety and amount of entertainment on offer
In-house promotions, effective website, social media presence
Quality overall and/or suitability of performance

32. BEST OUTDOOR AREA

This category recognises excellence in venues which provide an outdoor area. Emphasis is placed on total customer experience specific to the compliance and appropriateness of the outdoor facility offer.

Please note: Nominees will be judged on a anonymous site visit conducted during April or May 2026.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Thoughtful design and landscaping that complements the venue’s overall atmosphere. It should be visually appealing, creating a welcoming and enjoyable environment for guests.
Overall cleanliness of area
Characteristics (decor, lighting, greenery, ambience, music, use of seating arrangements) to elevate the outdoor experience
Presentation and appearance
Facility complies with tobacco legislation
Innovation and creativity
Integrates with the rest of the venue
Adequate heating and cooling
Adequate safety and security
Gives regard to noise and amenity issues
Optimum solution having regard to challenges faced
Proximity to a service area and amenities
Staff & service – presentation, level of engagement, efficient service levels, professionalism

33. BEST NT KENO VENUE*

This category recognises excellence in Keno offerings within a venue. It places significant emphasis on the overall quality of the customer experience, including food, beverages, customer service specifically regarding the Keno facilities area of the venue.

Please note: Nominees will be judged solely on an anonymous site visit during April and May 2026 and venues from both metropolitan and regional centres are eligible.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

provide a high-quality Keno offering, with efficient and user-friendly systems for patrons to play. The venue should ensure that the Keno experience is enjoyable, with clear and easy-to-understand gameplay for both new and experienced players.
Professionalism and outstanding customer service
Staff neat, in clean attire and well groomed
Staff knowledge and ability to assist Keno patrons
Range and quality of food and beverages
Decor and design characteristics
Condition of furniture, fittings & electrical
Popularity of the establishment
Ambience – audio visual, lighting, music
Hygiene and cleanliness
Lounge/seating area available for Keno patrons
Bar area in close proximity to Keno playing areas
In-house promotions and communication activities
Effective Signage

34. BEST TAB VENUE*

This category recognises excellence in service and facilities within a TAB setting in a venue. It places significant emphasis on the overall quality of the customer experience, including food, beverages, customer service specifically regarding the TAB facilities area of the venue.

Please note: Nominees will be judged solely on an anonymous site visit during April and May 2026 and venues from both metropolitan and regional centres are eligible.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Offer high-quality TAB betting facilities, including user-friendly betting terminals and features that enhance the betting experience
Staff knowledge and ability to assist in TAB area
Professionalism and outstanding customer service
Staff neat, in clean attire and well groomed
Range and quality of food and beverages
Comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Decor and design characteristics
Condition of furniture, fittings & electrical
Popularity of the establishment
Ambience – audio visual, lighting, music
Presentation and cleanliness of outlet & TAB area
Lounge/seating area available for TAB patrons
Bar area in close proximity to TAB area
In-house promotions and communication activities
Effective Signage
Growth of TAB turnover, over previous years with explanation of contributing factors to sales growth

35. Best New Local Product

This category recognises an outstanding new beverage product created by a Northern Territory producer that demonstrates excellence in brand storytelling, marketing creativity, innovation, presentation and taste.

The award aims to highlight creative new products entering the NT market, celebrating producers who bring unique flavours, compelling stories, sustainable practices and venue presence to the Territory’s hospitality scene.

Eligibility:

Open to Northern Territory distilleries and breweries holding a valid Producers Authority.
Products must have been launched between 1 April 2025 and 31 March 2026.
Products must be fermented, distilled, or brewed locally in the Northern Territory
Producers may enter multiple products, provided each meets the eligibility criteria.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Brand Story & Identity – Strength and authenticity of the brand story, including how the product reflects Territory culture, place or inspiration.
Marketing & Promotion – Creativity and effectiveness of the marketing approach, including campaigns, social media, events or collaborations
Innovation & Uniqueness – Originality of the product concept, production, ingredients, branding or launch approach.
How the product is showcased in venues (e.g. featured cocktails, tap placement, menu presence, promotions or activations)
Use of Local Ingredients (where applicable) – Incorporation of locally sourced Territory ingredients that add to the product story.
Sustainability Practices -Consideration of environmentally responsible production, packaging, and business practices that reduce impact and enhance the product’s story.
Taste – Is the taste balanced? Does the flavour deliver on the promise of the aroma and the brand story? Does it taste like what the label and marketing describe?

36. BEST SMALL BAR

This category will recognise a Small Bar that deliver excellence across all areas of their operation.

Please note: Nominees will be judged on an anonymous site visit conducted between April and May 2026. TripAdvisor ratings and Google Reviews and comments will also be taken into consideration.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Distinctive features of the venue (eg decor, design characteristics, unique theming)
Beverage experience and quality of offerings
Popularity of venue and alignment to local market
Professionalism and outstanding customer service (staff friendly and knowledgeable)
Availability of a selection of food
Hygiene and cleanliness
Social Media presence and website

37. WAYSIDE INN / OUTBACK PUB

This category recognises regionally remote and smaller wayside inns and stand-alone outback pubs that deliver excellence across all areas of their operation.

Please note: Nominees will be judged on an anonymous site visit conducted between April and May 2026. TripAdvisor ratings and comments will also be taken into consideration.

Judges will base their assessment on a range of areas including, but not exclusive to, the following:

Atmosphere, lighting, music, ambience and comfort
Measure of popularity
Staff customer service and team,approach
Bar presentation
Unique features/point of difference
Availability and choice of food
Guest services and information
Hygiene and cleanliness of premises
Accommodation and fuel services

OVERALL AWARDS

Entry to this category will be automatic upon nominations in the submission based categories and especially the relevant Community Service Category to be considered.

(Please note that Club winners are not eligible for any category in the AHA National Awards).

38. BEST OVERALL ACCOMMODATION HOTEL

This category recognises Accommodation Hotels that deliver excellence across all areas of their operation. Venues will have demonstrated innovation, professionalism and will have delivered the highest levels of excellence within customer service. Venues will be delivering a good range of high-quality services and will set the benchmark in hotel and hospitality excellence.

39. BEST OVERALL REGIONAL CLUB

This category recognises Regional Clubs that deliver excellence across all areas of their operation. Venues will have demonstrated innovation, professionalism and will have delivered the highest levels of excellence within customer service. Clubs will be delivering a good range of high-quality services and will set the benchmark in Club and hospitality excellence.

40. BEST OVERALL METROPOLITAN CLUB

This category recognises Metropolitan Clubs that deliver excellence across all areas of their operation. Venues will have demonstrated innovation, professionalism and will have delivered the highest levels of excellence within customer service. Clubs will be delivering a good range of high-quality services and will set the benchmark in Club and hospitality excellence.

41. BEST OVERALL REGIONAL HOTEL/TAVERN

This category recognises Regional Hotels/Taverns that deliver excellence across all areas of their operation. Venues will have demonstrated innovation, professionalism and will have delivered the highest levels of excellence within customer service. Venues will be delivering a good range of high-quality services and will set the benchmark in hotel and hospitality excellence.

42. BEST OVERALL METROPOLITAN HOTEL/TAVERN

This category recognises Hotels/Pubs in the Darwin/Palmerston/Coolalinga area that deliver excellence across all areas of their operation. Venues will have demonstrated innovation, professionalism and will have delivered the highest levels of excellence within customer service. Venues will be delivering a good range of high-quality services and will set the benchmark in hotel and hospitality excellence.