Record-breaking year for the NSW Tourism Awards as 2025 finalists revealed

The stage is set for one of the biggest celebrations of tourism excellence in New South Wales, with a record-breaking 230 nominations received for the 2025 NSW Tourism Awards.

Of these, 125 outstanding businesses and individuals have been named as finalists across 30 categories, with four special awards to be presented at the Gala Dinner on 27 November at Waterview, Bicentennial Park.

It’s a milestone year for the program, which saw an unprecedented number of first-time entrants — a strong signal that recognition in the NSW Tourism Awards has become both a mark of prestige and a valuable business development tool for operators.

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Celebrating excellence and community

Natalie Godward, CEO of the NSW Tourism Association, said this year’s finalists reflect the strength, innovation and resilience of the state’s visitor economy.

“We are incredibly proud to reveal this year’s finalists, representing tourism businesses and individuals from every corner of our state,” Ms Godward said.

“The NSW Tourism Awards unite our industry, strengthen our communities and shine a light on the dedication and pride of operators who create world-class experiences.”

Following an impressive showing at last year’s Australian Tourism Awards — where nine NSW-based operators made the podium—Ms Godward said the 2025 finalists are proof of a thriving, world-class sector that continues to set benchmarks for excellence.

New opportunities and partnerships

In a first for the program, the North Coast Regional Tourism Awards have joined forces with the state awards through a new partnership, creating a direct pathway for North Coast operators to compete on the national stage.

“We’re delighted about this partnership, which provides even greater opportunities and support for North Coast operators to enter and succeed,” Ms Godward said.

Raising the bar for business success

A panel of 56 independent judges assessed the submissions, noting the rising calibre of entries and an increasing focus on sustainability and innovation.

Beyond celebrating excellence, the program also helps entrants build stronger businesses.

“We’ve had highly positive feedback from participants who say the process helps them identify practical steps to improve their business performance,” Ms Godward said.

“It builds long-term capability as well as celebrating success.”

State pride and national impact

Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper congratulated all finalists, recognising their role in driving a sector that generates more than $50 billion annually for NSW.

“The finalists represent the very best of our state, setting benchmarks of excellence and showing how tourism strengthens local communities,” Mr Kamper said.

“With our Visitor Economy Strategy 2035 targeting even more flights, visitors and hotel rooms, these industry leaders will be crucial in making NSW the number one visitor economy in the nation.”

Categories celebrating diversity and innovation

Finalists are recognised across a broad range of categories, including:

• Tours, Attractions & Experiences

• Festivals & Events

• Accommodation

• Food & Drink Tourism

• Sustainable Tourism

• Tourism Services

• New Tourism Businesses

The NSW Tourism Awards are proudly supported by Destination NSW as the major sponsor for 2025.

The full list of finalists is available at nswtourismassociation.com.au/nsw-tourism-awards.