Tourism operators and experience creators across New South Wales are being urged to step into the spotlight, with entries now open for the 2026 National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards.
The Awards offer a valuable opportunity for visitor attractions, tour companies, accommodation providers and event organisers to gain recognition for their role in bringing the state’s heritage to life.
Now in its thirty second year, the National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards is regarded as the state’s leading celebration of excellence in the conservation, protection and interpretation of Aboriginal, built, natural and cultural heritage.
Tourism operators are closely aligned with the Awards focus on storytelling and place making, as they are often on the front line of interpreting history and culture for visitors.
The Events, Organisations and Tours category is expected to attract strong interest from tourism and experience providers that design and deliver visitor facing programs, including guided walks, festivals, exhibitions and immersive tours.
It sits within a suite of nine project categories spanning Aboriginal Heritage, Architecture, Advocacy, Built Conservation, Interiors and Objects, Landscape, Education and Interpretation, and Resources and Publication.
Individual achievements are recognised through four free to enter award categories, three of which are peer nominated. These include Lifetime Achievement, Heritage Skills and Young Achiever, alongside the Cathy Donnelly Memorial Award which celebrates women making a significant contribution to heritage. Special accolades such as the People’s Choice, Judges’ Choice and the President’s Prize further acknowledge standout projects and people.
Entries close at 11.59pm AEDT on Wednesday 4 March 2026, with shortlisted projects to be announced in April. Winners will be revealed at the 32nd annual National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards Ceremony at heritage listed Doltone House at Jones Bay Wharf on Friday 15 May 2026.
Returning Jury Chair and architect Matt Devine says the 2026 Awards come at a pivotal moment for both conservation and visitor growth. The Awards showcase how innovation and development can coexist with conservation, ensuring heritage rich destinations continue to evolve while safeguarding the stories, landscapes and places that make them compelling for travellers.
The National Trust Heritage Awards is the signature event of the Australian Heritage Festival, the nation’s largest community led heritage program, which each year features a wide range of free and ticketed events across metropolitan and regional New South Wales. For tourism businesses, participation in the Festival and success in the Awards can help drive visitation, reach new audiences and lift their profile in a competitive market.
Tickets to attend the 2026 National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards Ceremony are on sale until 1 May 2026, unless sold out earlier and demand is traditionally high. Tourism and travel trade partners keen to network with heritage operators, councils and cultural organisations are encouraged to secure places early.
For more information, entry criteria and online submissions for the 2026 National Trust (NSW) Heritage Awards, visit the National Trust website.
