The 2026 Bayside Local Business Awards are now open, giving residents the opportunity to recognise their favourite local businesses.
The annual awards showcase businesses that demonstrate outstanding customer service, innovation and community engagement. Open to businesses of all sizes and sectors, the program includes categories spanning retail, service and industrial industries.
Major awards include Business of the Year, Business Person of the Year and the Youth Award.
As a major sponsor of the awards, Bayside Council has introduced three special categories that recognise excellence in Sustainability, First Nations, and Inclusion & Accessibility.
Sustainability Award
The Sustainability Award recognises businesses that incorporate environmentally responsible practices into their planning, operations and marketing.
Examples include improving energy efficiency, reducing and recycling waste, using environmentally friendly products and materials, adopting sustainable transport options, and partnering with the community to achieve positive environmental outcomes.
First Nations Award
The First Nations Award supports Bayside Council’s commitment to reconciliation and aligns with the goals of its Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan.
The award celebrates businesses that are majority owned, operated or managed by Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander peoples and acknowledges their contribution to the local community and economy.
Inclusion & Accessibility Award
The Inclusion & Accessibility Award recognises businesses that foster environments where everyone feels welcome and valued, regardless of their circumstances.
Eligible organisations may demonstrate initiatives such as staff training and policies that support people with disability, seniors, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and LGBTQIA+ communities. Accessibility measures may include features such as ramps, grab rails, wider doorways and unisex bathrooms, as well as inclusive employment practices.
The three Council-sponsored awards are open to businesses and not-for-profit organisations operating within the Bayside local government area with an annual turnover of less than $10 million.
Public nominations close on Tuesday 1 September 2026, with winners to be announced at a gala presentation evening on Monday 2 November 2026 at Brighton Hotel Sydney – MGallery Collection.
Bayside Mayor Edward McDougall said:
“I’d like to encourage residents to support their favourite local businesses by voting for them in our annual awards,” Cr McDougall said.
“It means a lot to local businesses to be acknowledged and nominated by their customers for such a prestigious award.”
More Information
