The Australian Business Events Association (ABEA) has announced the winners of the Australian Business Events Awards 2025, with NSW events taking out four trophies.

The awards ceremony recognised outstanding work across exhibitions, conferences, incentives, venues, teams, innovation and sustainability, showcasing the breadth and strength of Australia’s business events industry.

ABEA Chair Peter King said this year’s winners reflect the industry’s creativity, resilience and commitment to best practice.

“Our sector thrives on collaboration, expertise and a shared commitment to delivering exceptional outcomes," he said.

"The award recipients represent the highest standards of professionalism and contribution across the industry.”

ABEA CEO Melissa Brown congratulated all finalists and winners, acknowledging the vital role they play in strengthening Australia’s position as a global leader in business events.

“Our industry is driven by passionate, capable professionals who continuously raise the bar for innovation, sustainability and excellence," she said.

"These awards recognise their commitment and the partnerships that make our sector so influential. Congratulations to all who have contributed to another remarkable year.”

The NSW event winners were:

Best Conference: SXSW Sydney 2024

Social & Cultural Initiative: The 76th International Astronautical Congress 2025 (MCI Australia)

Most Outstanding Marketing Campaign: The 76th International Astronautical Congress 2025 (MCI Australia)

Best Product or Initiative: The 76th International Astronautical Congress 2025 Sustainability Initiative – Social & Cultural (MCI Australia)

Learn more about SXSW Sydney's impact on the NSW visitor economy here.

Learn more about the 76th International Astronautical Congress 2025's impact on the NSW visitor economy here.

AIME named Best Event in 2025

Congratulations also to Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) 2025 on winning Best Trade Show and Best Event in 2025.

Event Director Silke Calder said: “To be recognised as Best Event of the Year is a remarkable honour for AIME. It reflects the strength of our industry and the collaboration that underpins everything we do,” she says.

“I want to thank our partners and participants for their ongoing support, and our exceptional team whose passion is the key to this success. This award motivates us to keep raising the bar.”

Business Events NSW looks forward to attending AIME 2026 from 9-11 February 2026.

The Asia Pacific’s largest and longest running business events exhibition and learning platform will feature more than 4500 attendees including 700 exhibitors, 700 hosted buyers and more than 20,000 pre-scheduled appointments.

View the full list of Australian Business Events Awards winners here.