The Visual Media Association (VMA) has opened nominations for the 2026 National Print Awards’ Lifetime Achievement honours, and is inviting the industry to put forward outstanding leaders in the sector.
The Lifetime Achievement Award, the sector’s highest honour, will recognise an individual whose career has demonstrated leadership and innovation, and has delivered exceptional and enduring contribution to Australia’s print, packaging, signage and visual media industries.
For the first time in the history of the National Print Awards, the nomination process is being formally opened to the broader industry, with members invited to submit nominations supported by a clearly defined assessment framework.
Kellie Northwood, chief executive officer of the VMA, said opening the nomination process reflects the Association’s commitment to recognising the extraordinary individuals who have shaped the industry over decades.
“The Lifetime Achievement Award recognises the individuals who have helped build and sustain the print and visual media industry in Australia,” said Northwood.
“These are leaders who have dedicated decades to building businesses, developing people, advancing technology and ensuring our industry continues to evolve and remain competitive.
“For the first time we are inviting nominations from across the industry so that members, peers and colleagues can help recognise the individuals whose leadership and commitment have left a lasting mark on our sector.”
According to Northwood, the Award represents more than a recognition of career longevity; it is about acknowledging those rare individuals whose impact extends beyond their own organisation.
“They are the custodians of our industry, the people who invest in its future, champion the next generation, and help guide the sector through times of change,” Northwood added.
“Their legacy is not just measured in business success, but in the people they mentor, the standards they uphold, and the strength of the industry they leave behind.”
The Lifetime Achievement Award nomination process is guided by a comprehensive set of eligibility and assessment criteria designed to ensure nominees demonstrate sustained and transformational impact across the sector.
Eligibility requirements include a minimum of 30 years’ involvement in the print, packaging, signage or visual communications industry, together with recognised leadership, integrity and professional standing among industry peers.
Assessment criteria includes:
- Industry leadership and long-term impact
- Strategic contribution and innovation
- Service and custodianship of the wider industry
- Contribution to workforce development and mentoring
- Reputation, ethics and professional standing
- Longevity and consistency of contribution over decades
Nominations should include the nominee’s name, the organisation they served in for the longest period of their career, a summary of their career achievements, and the rationale for nomination.
Following the initial review process, the VMA may request further supporting information where a nomination progresses to the final stage.
The Lifetime Achievement Award is assessed by the VMA Board as part of the National Print Awards governance process. The Board retains discretion to determine whether nominations meet the threshold for this highest honour and may elect not to present the Award in a given year if a suitable nominee is not identified.
The 2026 National Print Awards will be held in Brisbane on 4 June 2026, bringing together leaders from across the print, packaging, signage and visual media sectors to celebrate excellence, innovation and the enduring strength of the industry.
For further information on the 2026 National Print Awards or to submit a nomination, visit the VMA website.
