To enter the awards, businesses must be registered with the Australian Tax Office (ATO) and hold a current Australian Business Number (ABN). They must operate in, or service the Gunnedah region Local Government Area. Detailed eligibility criteria are provided within the awards portal and within the award category descriptions.

While we encourage and would love to have you as a member of Gunnedah Chamber, no - you do not need to be a member to enter and partake in the award categories at a local level. However, if you are the winner in your local category and wish to continue as a finalist in the regional awards, you require a membership with your local chamber (Gunnedah) to create a BusinessNSW account and progress further.

As the Business Awards recognises business success within our region, there are a multitude of benefits to entering and taking part with us: Increased Visibility: Gain exposure and recognition in the local community and beyond. Enhanced Credibility: Boost your reputation by showcasing your achievements and excellence. Networking Opportunities: Connect with other local businesses, potential clients, and industry leaders. Marketing Advantage: Use the award in your marketing materials to differentiate your business from competitors. Employee Morale: Recognise and reward your team's hard work and dedication. Benchmarking: Evaluate your business against industry standards and identify areas for improvement. Customer Trust: Increase customer confidence and loyalty by demonstrating your commitment to quality and excellence. Access to New Opportunities: Open doors to new partnerships, collaborations, and growth opportunities. Feedback and Insights: Receive valuable feedback from judges and industry experts. Celebrate Success: Take the time to reflect on and celebrate your business achievements.

Gunnedah Chamber of Commerce have chosen 6 categories from the aligned BusinessNSW categories to represent locally. Outstanding New Business The Outstanding New Business Award recognises a start-up business, trading for less than 24 months, that has effectively driven growth and is able to demonstrate the potential to achieve future success. Outstanding Young Business Leader The Outstanding Young Business Leader Award recognises an inspirational business leader aged 35 or under at the time of entry who has demonstrated a commitment to their workplace, industry, and the community through leadership. Excellence in Micro Business The Excellence in Micro Business Award recognises a business, less than 5 employees, that has effectively driven growth and is able to demonstrate the specific strategies implemented to achieve business success and/or resilience. Excellence in Small Business The Excellence in Small Business Award recognises a business, 5-20 employees, that has effectively driven growth and is able to demonstrate the specific strategies implemented to achieve business success and/or resilience. Excellence in Large Business The Excellence in Large Business Award recognises a business, 21 + employees, that has effectively driven growth and is able to demonstrate the specific strategies implemented to achieve business success and/or resilience. Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion This Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion Award recognises businesses that address the needs of a diverse community, including seniors, people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds, and people with disability. An inclusive business facilitates the needs of all its employees and customers.

Nomination Form Live: Wednesday 12 June Gunnedah Entries Open: Wednesday 12 June Gunnedah Nomination Form Closes: Tuesday 9 July Gunnedah Entry Deadline: Monday 15 July Gunnedah Judging Commences: Wednesday 10 July Gunnedah Judging Concludes: Monday 22 July Gunnedah Finalists Announced: Wednesday 24 July Gunnedah Tickets on Sale: Thursday 24 July Gunnedah Awards Gala: Saturday 10 August Regional Finalists Announced: Wednesday 21 August Regional Gala Ceremony: Saturday 20 September NSW State Business Awards: Wednesday 30 October - Sydney

Our 6 award categories were hand selected to recognise various aspects of local business excellence, from innovative products and services to exceptional customer service and community involvement. Categories align with those in the NSW Business Chamber Business Awards for broader recognition.

Yes - that is correct. Gunnedah Chamber of Commerce selected 6 of 19 available categories to represent at our local award gala that we believe capture a snapshot of all our community has to offer. You are welcome to apply for any of our six award categories that . If none of the local categories seem suitable, or don't best reflect your business achievements and strengths - we encourage you to explore other award categories that are available regionally. Please visit https://www.businessnsw.com/events/business-awards/new-england-north-west to view all available categories and find the best fit for your business.

Nominations have now closed for the 2024 Gala Business Awards. ​ Award applications are open until midnight Monday 15th July - head to our 2024 Gala Business Awards page to learn more. ​ Note; businesses do not have to be nominated to enter into the awards.

Entries must be submitted online through the Gunnedah Awards Platform at gunnedah.awardsplatform.com. Please complete the entry form for your chosen category and ensure all required information is provided by the submission deadline.

We understand that those who nominated you may not know the exact characteristics of our business and thus, the nominated category may not align perfectly with your business. Or you may just want to enter into a different category! You are welcome to apply for any of our six award categories that best reflect your business achievements and strengths. If none of the local categories seem suitable, you can explore other award categories that are available regionally. Please visit https://www.businessnsw.com/events/business-awards/new-england-north-west to view all available categories and find the best fit for your business.

Submissions through the Award Portal close at midnight on Monday 15 July, 2024. No submissions will be accepted past this date.

Yes, businesses are eligible to nominate for multiple categories, provided they adhere to the specific requirements and criteria for each category.

Submissions should include all required information as outlined in the entry form. This may include a business overview, achievements, testimonials, financial information (if applicable), and any other relevant supporting documents.

If you are a brand-new business, you are eligible to enter the Outstanding New Business category if you have been trading for less than two years. This category specifically celebrates the achievements and potential of new businesses within our community. For businesses that have been operating for longer than two years and meet the respective employee thresholds, you may also consider entering the Excellence in Micro, Small, or Large Business categories, depending on your number of full-time equivalent (FTE) employees and other eligibility criteria outlined.

No, entry to the Gunnedah Chamber of Commerce Business Awards is free.

An independent panel of judges from various industries will evaluate all entries. Judges are required to sign confidentiality agreements and disclose any conflicts of interest. Entries are scored against set criteria, and all decisions are final.

Finalists will be notified by their preferred method of communication (email, phone, or SMS) after the judging process is complete. Specific dates for announcements are available in the Key Award Dates section on our website.

Winners receive a physical award, professional photographs, and significant recognition through local and regional media. Additionally, they progress as an automatic finalist to the NSW Business Chamber New England North West Regional Awards gaining valuable exposure, enhanced credibility, and the opportunity to progress to State Awards.

Our committee is available to assist with any queries, thoughts, or feedback regarding your entry. Please contact us through our website or reach out directly to our support team for guidance.

Yes, sponsors may enter the Business Awards program, but they cannot enter the category they are sponsoring.

Yes, the Gunnedah Chamber of Commerce Gala Business Awards include categories that align with the NSW Business Chamber Business Awards, allowing for broader recognition and opportunities for regional and state-level accolades.

Follow our social media channels, subscribe to our newsletter, and regularly check our website for updates on key dates, announcements, and other important information.

A copy of the Terms & Conditions of Entry can be downloaded below.

If you have entered in the past, you are welcome to enter again! We encourage businesses to showcase their ongoing achievements and growth by participating in our awards program year after year. Each entry allows you to demonstrate your continued commitment to excellence and innovation in your category, alongside other leading businesses in our community.

The Gunnedah Chamber of Commerce committee is a group of dedicated individuals responsible for overseeing the activities, initiatives, and strategic direction of the Chamber. The committee works to support local businesses and foster economic growth within the Gunnedah region.

Gunnedah Chamber committee is divided into two main sections: the Executive Committee and the General Committee. The Executive Committee includes key leadership roles such as: - President - Vice President - Treasurer, and - Secretary There is also currently a paid role with Gunnedah Chamber: - Events, Marketing and Engagement Manager The General Committee consists of additional members who contribute to various projects, events, and initiatives. Gunnedah Chamber is also made up of subcommittees - these subcommittees are focused on particular projects/events/goals (i.e. Christmas Festival, Industrial Development, Gunnedah Health Connect). Both committee members and general Chamber members can join these subcommittees to support local initiatives they're passionate about.

The Executive Committee members hold leadership positions with specific responsibilities, such as overseeing finances, managing meetings, and providing overall direction. The General Committee members support the Chamber’s initiatives and may lead or participate in specific projects, but do not hold the same level of administrative authority as the Executive Committee.

Committee members are expected to actively participate in meetings, contribute to discussions, assist in planning and executing events, and support the Chamber's goals. Executive Committee members may have additional responsibilities, such as managing finances, meeting regularly with local Council, having additional Executive meetings outside of the monthly committee meeting, coordinating communications, and overseeing specific projects. Gunnedah Chamber is also made up of subcommittees - these subcommittees are focused on particular projects/events/goals (i.e. Christmas Festival, Industrial Development, Gunnedah Health Connect). Both committee members and general Chamber members can join these subcommittees to support local initiatives they're passionate about.

Committee members are expected to attend regular monthly meetings, which typically last 1-2 hours. In addition, members may need to dedicate time to specific projects, events, or subcommittee meetings, depending on their role and involvement.

Committee members are responsible for representing the interests of the Gunnedah business community, participating in decision-making processes, and contributing to the Chamber’s various initiatives. Specific responsibilities may vary based on the role within the committee.

The committee includes positions on both the Executive and General Committee. Positions include President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, and General Committee Members. Specific roles may vary based on the Chamber's current needs and structure.

Committee members typically serve a term of one year, with the option to be re-elected or reappointed for additional terms. Serving for two or more years assist with traction and consistency. The election of committee members usually takes place during the Annual General Meeting (AGM) - September/October each year.

While there are no specific qualifications required to join the committee, a passion for supporting local businesses, strong communication skills, and a willingness to contribute time and effort are highly valued. Certain roles, such as Treasurer, may benefit from specific skills, such as financial management experience.

Joining the committee provides an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the local business community, develop leadership skills, expand your professional network, and gain valuable experience in governance and project management.

To apply for a committee position, you can submit a nomination form during the lead-up to the Annual General Meeting (AGM). Nominations are typically called for several weeks before the AGM, and all members are encouraged to apply.

Committee members are expected to attend monthly meetings, which are usually scheduled at a consistent time each month. Members should come prepared to discuss agenda items, provide updates on their areas of responsibility, and engage in decision-making.

Yes! New members are welcome to join the committee. It's a great way to get involved in the Chamber, learn more about its operations, and contribute to the local business community.

There is a new committee meeting held the month following AGM for newly elected members as a meet and greet and to familiarise them with the Chamber’s structure, goals, and current initiatives. Experienced committee members and the Executive Committee will also provide guidance and support as needed.

Joining the committee is an excellent way to contribute to the growth and prosperity of the Gunnedah business community. It offers opportunities for personal and professional development, networking, and making a positive impact on the local economy.