2026 NT Defence Industry Excellence Awards (AIDN NT Gala Dinner)

TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE!

AIDN NT invites you to join us for the 2026 NT Defence Industry Excellence Awards (AIDN NT Gala Dinner), a night celebrating the best of the best in Defence Industry in collaboration with:

THE DINNER

The 2026 NT Defence Industry Excellence Awards is the premier Defence Industry evening celebrating excellence, leadership, and contribution within Australia’s defence industry. The night will bring together industry leaders, government representatives, SMEs, and emerging talent from around Australia and sets the stage to recognise the outstanding achievements across the Northern Territory defence sector.

The AIDN NT Gala Dinner and Industry Awards Night is a highlight on the defence industry calendar—honouring success, strengthening connections, and celebrating the people who help shape the future of Australia’s defence industry in the Northern Territory.

EVENT DETAILS:

Date:  Tuesday 28 April 2026
Time: 18:30 for pre-dinner drinks and photo opportunities, formalities begin at 19:00*
Venue: Darwin Convention Centre, Darwin, NT, 0800
Dress: Territory Formal, Black Tie or Mess Kit with Miniatures, Ladies – Formal Attire.
RSVP: 11pm, Friday 17th April 2026

THE AWARDS

The evening will also feature two AIDN specific awards and seven Industry awards offered by the Chief Minister of the Northern Territory and Defence NT. The awards will showcase individuals and businesses working within the Defence Industry in the Northern Territory and celebrate their achievements during 2025.

AIDN NT Young Achiever Award

This award recognizes the next generation of talent shaping the defence industry in the Northern Territory. This prestigious award celebrates young professionals who demonstrate exceptional skill, innovation, and leadership in their field. Their contributions drive industry growth, inspire future leaders, and strengthen Australia’s sovereign capability.

Nominate here: AIDN NT Young Achiever Award

Nominations close: 5pm, Tuesday 31st March 2026 ACST.

AIDN Defence Industry Contribution Excellence Award

The AIDN Defence Industry Contribution Excellence Award recognises individuals over the age of 30 who have demonstrated exceptional commitment, expertise, and impact within Australia’s defence industry. It celebrates those whose sustained contributions strengthen sovereign capability, advance industry growth, and support national security outcomes.

Nominate here: AIDN Defence Industry Contribution Award

Nominations Close: 5pm, Tuesday 31st March 2026 ACST.

Chief Minister and Defence NT Industry Awards:

• 2026 AIDN Defence Industry Contribution Excellence Award (DICE)

• Minister for Veterans' Affairs Award for Veteran Employer of the Year 2026

• Minister for Veterans' Affairs Award for Veteran Employee of the Year 2026

• Minister for Veterans' Affairs Award for Veteran Partner Entrepreneur of the Year 2026

• Chief Ministers Award for Excellence in Defence Industry 2026

• Chief Ministers Award for Excellence in Defence Industry - Small Business 2026

• Chief Ministers Award for Excellence in Defence Industry - Indigenous Business 2026

Nominate here: Chief Minister and Defence NT Industry Awards

*Please note this event will begin at 6:30pm for pre-dinner drinks, formalities will begin at 7:00pm.

REGISTRATIONS ARE ESSENTIAL. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A RESERVATION, YOU WILL NOT BE PERMITTED TO ATTEND THE EVENT. Please note that all payments made through Humanitix will incur additional Fees. These fees are non-refundable.