NSW Tourism Association has announced the winners of the 2026 NSW Top Tourism Town Awards, officially presented at the Local Government NSW Destination and Visitor Economy Conference in Maitland.
The awards celebrate the outstanding regional destinations across NSW that deliver exceptional visitor experiences, showcase strong community pride and continue to inspire travellers to explore more of the state.
The awards program recognises towns across three population categories and includes a consumer voting component through the NRMA People’s Choice Award, celebrating the destinations most loved by visitors.
2026 winners
Top Tourism Town (population over 5000)
• Kiama – Gold
• Orange – Silver
• Wollongong – Bronze
• Orange – NRMA People’s Choice Award
Small Tourism Town (population between 1500 – 5000)
• Gulgong – Gold
• Gloucester – Silver
• Thirlmere – Bronze
• Shoal Bay – NRMA People’s Choice Award
Tiny Tourism Town (population below 1500)
• Broke – Gold
• Millthorpe – Silver
• Mungindi – Bronze
• Millthorpe – NRMA People’s Choice Award
This year also marks a major milestone for Kiama which has officially achieved Hall of Fame status following three consecutive Gold wins in the Top Tourism Town category.
Following Huskisson, which achieved Hall of Fame status in 2025 following three consecutive Gold wins in the Tiny Tourism Town category.
Kiama and Huskisson’s consistent success highlights the strength of the South Coast region as a visitor destination and recognises the incredible collaboration between local businesses, tourism operators and the community in creating memorable visitor experiences year after year.
NSW Tourism Association CEO Natalie Godward said: “These awards shine a spotlight on the amazing towns and communities that make regional NSW so memorable.
“Every finalist and winner should be incredibly proud of the way they welcome visitors and showcase the best of their region. There’s never been a better time to get out, hit the road, support local businesses and discover the incredible experiences right across our state.”
NRMA Parks and Resorts CEO Paul Davies said: “Regional towns are the heart of so many great Australian travel experiences, and the People's Choice Award reflects the destinations that visitors genuinely love to explore.
“At NRMA, we see firsthand the important role road travel plays in connecting people with regional communities, and we're proud to support an awards program that celebrates the towns helping drive visitor growth, local pride and economic prosperity across NSW.”
President of LGNSW Mayor Darcy Byrne said: “LGNSW is thrilled to once again partner with the NSW Tourism Association on these awards.
“Councils work closely with their communities to help shape destinations that people want to explore and experience. “From standout events to transformative local projects, councils are driving visitor economies that celebrate local identity and create lasting memories for locals and visitors alike.“
Taronga Western Plains Zoo Director Steve Hinks said: “Regional NSW is where some of the state’s most memorable visitor experiences are found, and towns like the Top Tourism Town finalists play a critical role in driving tourism and supporting local communities.
“From unique wildlife encounters to welcoming country hospitality, regional destinations offer something truly special. I’d strongly encourage people to hit the road and explore what’s on their doorstep—you won’t be disappointed.”
All Gold-winning towns will now go on to represent NSW at the Australian Top Tourism Town Awards in Canberra later this year. The NSW Top Tourism Town Awards are proudly supported by NRMA and delivered by the NSW Tourism Association in partnership with Local Government NSW.
