The race for travel industry’s biggest honours is officially underway, with the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) unveiling the nominees for the 2026 National Travel Industry Awards (NTIA).
Set to take place in Melbourne on 10 October, NTIA 2026 is already shaping up as the largest in the awards’ history after attracting more than 2,000 peer nominations from across the sector — more than 300 higher than last year’s record-breaking tally.
The awards program features 36 categories this year, refreshed following feedback from NTIA Custodians, with nominees now preparing for the next stage of judging.
Voting for supplier categories opens on 15 June and closes on 17 July, while finalists in judged categories will be announced in late July.
ATIA CEO Dean Long said the continued growth of the awards highlights the strength and passion of Australia’s travel industry.
“It’s wonderful to see NTIA go from strength to strength and our 2026 celebrations are already shaping up to be one of the largest we’ve ever had,” Long said.
“We look forward to seeing everyone in Melbourne for Beyond Borders on Friday 9 October and then NTIAs on Saturday 10 October. Get voting to show your support for those in travel who represent the very best of our sector.”
The awards weekend will once again bring together travel professionals from around the country, with the Beyond Borders conference, Finalists Celebration, NTIA Gala and Wellness 5km all returning as part of the program.
The full list of nominees has now been released, marking the beginning of what is expected to be another fiercely contested NTIA season.
