Nominations are now open for the 2026 40 Under 40 awards.

Award Categories

Individual awards are presented to finalists who are exemplary in their fields.

Creative Thinker Award

Recognises the person who best demonstrates thinking creatively in relation to any aspect of their business or endeavours, showing the use of innovation to progress. 

Emerging Industries Award

Recognises an individual contributing to, or a company operating in, one of the ‘Emerging Industries’ that will contribute to the prosperous future of our state.

Inspiring Future Leaders Award

Recognises the vision, thought, leadership and achivement of a leader in the private or public sector.

Social Impact Award

Recognises an individual who is challenging conventional thinking by driving social innovation and inclusive practices, and proving doing good, is just good business.

Entrepreneurial Award

Recognises an outstanding lateral business thinker and risk taker exhibiting entrepreneurial flair.

Sustainable Business
Leaders Award

Recognises a person who has created visionary technologies that can sustainably enhance human experience and capabilities.

Discovery Award

Recognises a person who has led an innovative research project that has had multi-disciplinary and business impact on the future health sector.

Game Changer Award

Recognises a person who has re-written the rules of business to challenge, inspire and spark significant change.

Rural and Regional Award

Recognises an individual who demonstrates influence and leadership in contributing to the prosperity of a rural or regional business and community.

Food Innovation Award

Recognising and celebrating innovation and excellence across all categories in the food and beverage industry.

Inspiring Female
Leaders Award

Recognises an outstanding female who leads, inspires and pushes the boundaries of the business community.

First Among Equals

Selected by the judging panel as the finalist who embodies the 40 Under 40 as the First Among Equals.

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

[email protected]