The Visual Media Association (VMA) has announced final seats for the 2026 National Print Awards, with only 14 seats remaining for the Gala Night and eight places left for the Ink & Innovation Masterclass.
As demand reaches capacity across both events, the VMA is encouraging the industry to secure their place at the InterContinental Brisbane on Thursday 4 June 2026.
The 41st National Print Awards will bring together leaders, innovators, suppliers and emerging talent from across Australia’s print, packaging, signage and visual communications sectors to celebrate excellence across the industry.
Kellie Northwood, chief executive officer of the VMA, said the strong demand reflects the importance of the Awards as a national gathering point for the sector.
“The National Print Awards are the pinnacle event for our industry, recognising the people, businesses and capability driving the future of print and visual media in Australia,” Northwood said.
“With seats now extremely limited, we are entering the final stage of registrations and encouraging anyone intending to attend to secure their place immediately.”
Finalists announced across Majors
This year’s Awards celebrate outstanding individuals and organisations across the sector, with major category finalists including representatives from leading industry businesses and others across the national supply chain.
Finalists span categories including Industry Supplier of the Year, Workplace Culture & Well-being Achievement, Emerging Talent of the Year, Industry Woman of the Year and Industry Employee of the Year, recognising excellence across leadership, innovation, sustainability, capability and workforce development.
Winners of select major categories will also participate in an international study tour across Europe, including attendance at leading global industry events and visits to major print manufacturing operations.
According to Northwood, the finalists reflect the depth of capability across the sector.
“What we continue to see is an industry defined by innovation, craftsmanship and collaboration,” she said. “These finalists demonstrate the strength of Australian print businesses and the people driving them forward.”
Masterclass near capacity
The 2026 program also includes the Ink & Innovation Masterclass, supported by Platinum Sponsor CMYKhub.
Designed as a high-impact leadership and performance forum, the half-day session will bring together senior industry leaders for focused discussion on growth, technology, automation, AI and business transformation.
International keynote speaker Jon Bailey, CEO of Precision Proco, will headline the program alongside Kelvin Gage and Bernardo Stalenhoef of GF Smith, with CMYKhub CEO Dayne Nankervis joining a dedicated Q&A panel exploring production strategy, trade partnerships and operational efficiency.
The masterclass will also feature CMYKhub’s showcase presence in the foyer, highlighting its national production capability and trade partnership model.
Northwood said the strong uptake highlights the demand for practical, industry-led discussion.
“The response to Ink & Innovation has been outstanding,” she added. “It reflects a clear appetite for real-world insight that helps businesses adapt, grow and remain competitive.”
Strong industry support
The 2026 National Print Awards are supported by Platinum Sponsors HP and Currie Group, alongside industry partners including Fujifilm, Ball & Doggett, Plockmatic Group, Renz, Ricoh Australia, Konica Minolta Australia, Flint Group Packaging Solutions, Print21, Print Training Australia, Spectra and Spicers.
Northwood said the level of sponsorship reflects long-term confidence in the sector’s future.
“Our partners play a critical role in supporting innovation, skills development and industry connection,” she explained. “Their commitment ensures the Awards continue to grow in scale and impact each year.”
For registrations and final tickets, click here for the Gala Night, and here for the Ink & Innovation Masterclass.
For further information, contact the VMA on hello@visualmediaassociation.org.au or phillip@visualmediaassociation.org.au.