The Visual Media Association (VMA) has confirmed strong industry support for the 41st National Print Awards, with partners from across the print and visual media sector backing the 2026 program.
The National Print Awards will take place in Brisbane on Thursday 4 June 2026, with the evening gala to be held at the InterContinental Brisbane, bringing together businesses and professionals from across print, packaging, signage and visual communications.
Platinum partners HP and Currie Group continue to support the Awards, alongside gold sponsors Fujifilm, Ball & Doggett, Plockmatic Group, Renz, Ricoh Australia, Konica Minolta, Flint Group and Spectra, Spicers, APPIA and CMYKHub, with more still to come.
Print21 will once again serve as media partner, supporting the visibility of the Awards program, and ensuring the achievements of Australian print businesses are recognised across the industry.
“I have always said, our industry partners and sponsors supporting industry programs and awards are invaluable. These organisations should be applauded for their support and industry should note their commitment to making sure these sorts of events continue. I thank each and every sponsor for all their support,” said Kellie Northwood, chief executive officer of the VMA.
As new entrants to the 2026 Awards, companies like Spectra, Renz, Flint Group and CMYKHub are highlighting growth across the National Print Awards, in terms of activity and support from across the entire industry – from original equipment manufacturers to training providers, trade partners to ink, paper and consumable suppliers.
Industry partner support further enables the continued development of initiatives that extend beyond the Awards evening, with the addition of the UK Print Tour across three major awards – with Industry Woman of the Year, Emerging Talent of the Year, and Employee of the Year entrants all being in the running for the week-long UK Print Tour in September.
First introduced in 2025, the international study tour provides major award winners with the opportunity to engage directly with global markets, including attendance at the Power of Print Conference in London and visits to leading print businesses, manufacturers and suppliers across Europe.
In 2025, winners of the Emerging Talent and Employee of the Year Awards participated in the program, with site visits to organisations including Ricoh, Konica Minolta and Plockmatic Group in the UK, providing insight into how print businesses are operating in international markets and the approaches being used to remain competitive in a changing environment.
In 2026 all winners will attend The Print Show and also attend site visits across the UK.
In addition to the Awards program, the 2026 event will include the Ink & Innovation masterclass, supported by conference partner CMYKhub.
The Ink & Innovation event is a true masterclass with globally recognised industry guru Jon Bailey, CEO of Precision Proco, scheduled to share growing margin strategies across sales, technology and AI, and people and culture.
“This conference has a firm no ‘advertorials’ policy. We have built a masterclass to give attendees a jump start at building stronger businesses. Those attending will be the powerhouse of the year ahead, and with less than 80 tickets available, I recommend people book ASAP,” Northwood added.
“The National Print Awards brings the industry together to recognise achievement, connect with peers and share knowledge. It is an opportunity to celebrate the work being delivered across Australia, while continuing to build a strong and connected sector.”
Nominations for the 2026 National Print Awards are now open. Conference registration is strictly limited to 100 attendees, so those interested should book their spots now.