The Drinks Association is excited to announce that submissions are now open for the 2025 Contribution to Industry Awards. The winners to be revealed at the 2025 Australian Drinks Awards on Thursday, 17 July, at the Hilton Sydney.
Following the overwhelmingly positive response to the updated 2024 Awards, we are pleased to confirm that the Contribution to Industry Awards will remain a key part of the program this year. These awards recognise excellence across the drinks industry in areas that reflect current industry priorities.
Georgia Lennon, CEO of the Drinks Association, said:
“The Contribution to Industry Awards are an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the incredible initiatives making a real difference in our industry. By shining a light on excellence in inclusion, wellbeing and sustainability, we’re not only rewarding progress but also inspiring continued innovation and leadership across the sector.”
Contribution to Industry Awards 2025
The award categories for 2025 will remain the same as in 2024.
Best Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Initiative
This award recognises initiatives that successfully address a workforce challenge for an organisation relating to diverse or marginalised cohorts of employees or the wider community. This initiative will be judged alongside demonstrated continued focus and progress with regard to gender equality.
2024 winner: Lion for their We Belong at Lion Employee Resource Group that seeks to build a strong sense of belonging for culturally diverse team members and support their pathways towards leadership positions.
Best Wellbeing Initiative
This category acknowledges initiatives that prioritise the promotion and support of workforce health and wellbeing, showcasing their direct impact on organisational objectives.
2024 winner: Pernod Ricard Winemakers for their 2023 Responsib’All Day, an entire day when employees focus on their own wellbeing with activities like meditation workshops, health checks and yoga.
Best Environmental Sustainability Initiative
Co-created with the Drinks Association’s Sustainability Council, this award highlights initiatives driving environmental engagement and social consciousness within the industry.
2024 winner: Lion for achieving 100% renewable electricity procurement for all Australian operations in 2023, seven years ahead of their stated target.
2024 highly commended: Australian Vintage for achieving B Corp certification in February 2024.
How to submit your entry
Entries for the 2025 Contribution to Industry Awards are now open to Drinks Association members and will close on 30 May 2025.
Award criteria and submission documentation can be obtained by emailing awards@drinks.asn.au.
A panel of industry leaders, including representatives from the Drinks Association Board, member companies and experts in diversity and inclusion, sustainability and employee wellbeing, will assess all entries.
With the 2025 awards now open, we look forward to recognising the outstanding efforts of organisations across the drinks industry. If you have any questions, please reach out to awards@drinks.asn.au.