Application form

Applying to be considered in the 40 Under 40 is simple but detailed. We want to hear about the impact you have made for South Australia in your career.

Although strictly a business awards, we are looking for people from across all industries and sectors who have helped shape their business and are leaders in their field.

Previous applicants are encouraged to re-apply – just because last time wasn’t your time, doesn’t mean 2026 is the same.

Previous 40 Under 40 finalists are not eligible to apply – you can sit back and enjoy welcoming the new crew to your Alumni group.

Download the 2026 entry criteria for more information.

💡 You can save a draft at any time – click “save draft” at the bottom of the form.

40 Under 40 SA 2026 – Application Form

Your details

Are you under 40 prior to 1 July 2026?
Do you reside in South Australia?
An address to which invitations and important correspondence can be sent.

Business/Organisation Information

Website, LinkedIn, or social media page
If applicable. Include name and job title.
Number of staff that report to you

Qualifications

Provide evidence on the following (if applicable)

  • Qualifications
  • Institution/body that issued qualifications
  • Year qualification was obtained (or ongoing)
  • Description of qualification
Select any univerities that you have attended
If applicable

Memberships

Provide evidence on the following (if applicable):

  • Name of membership/affiliation
  • Description
  • Any extra academic and professional information you wish to include

Employment History

Maximum file size: 10MB

Part one: Why you?

Completing one of these options is required to complete your application.*

Option 1: Please make a short video introducing yourself and answering ‘why you should be selected as a finalist in the 40 Under 40 Awards’ .
File requirements: Maximum length 60 seconds, maximum file size 200mb.

Maximum file size: 200MB

URL of the video in a publicly-accessible location – eg. cloud storage, YouTube, Vimeo.
Option 2: Please write a paragraph answering ‘why you should be selected as a finalist in the 40 Under 40 Awards’.
Weighting: 20%

Part two: Business factors

Judges are looking for individuals who are leading South Australian businesses or organisations in a positive direction. This might be by starting a new business, or creating change within a more established company. You could be working in a traditional for-profit business, or in the business operations of a non-profit, community organisation, charity, research, etc. Be specific about your contributions. Your story could inspire the next generation.

– Share your career story, achievements, recognitions, what ultimately has determined your success so far.

Weighting: 20%

Part three: Setbacks and challenges

To create change, you have likely taken some risks. Detail the adversities, risks or challenges you recognised and highlight the entrepreneurial and innovative actions you took to overcome them. What did you learn and how has it made you a better leader?

– Outline biggest business challenges, career setbacks, how you dealt with challenges, take away experiences, lessons learnt.

Weighting: 20%

Part four: Community contribution

Our Judges believe that the best South Australian businesses do more than just make a profit. Tell us how you have already left your mark on your local community, and how you plan to grow this in the future.

Involvement can be past or present, giving back to the community can be through the day-to-day work you do, or it might be in addition to your normal day job.

Judges are looking for a well-rounded leader. Explain how the work you are doing is making a difference to South Australia, and your plans to make an ongoing, or bigger contribution in the future.

– Detail any community involvement, whether for the good of one or more people, or the entire community. Endeavours that positively contribute to South Australia (personal or through your business) 

Weighting: 20%

Part five: Plans for the future

Successful businesses often have big plans. What do you plan to achieve in the next few years? Outline your plans for personal and business growth.
Weighting: 20%

Part six: Summary of your application

A short, impactful pitch to our judging panel.

Reference 1 of 2

Please provide two business references.

Reference 2 of 2

Please provide two business references.

A bit of fun

Answer a selection of questions to help us make any reporting on you and the awards a little more fun and South Australian!

These questions are not required to proceed with your application.

How did you hear about 40 Under 40?

How did you hear about the 40 Under 40 awards?
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Please contact us if you encounter any issues with the form. Saving a draft will help us assist you.

For enquiries about the 40 Under 40 Awards or to find out more about becoming a partner of the program:

[email protected]