20th October 2025
Inspiring Workplaces Australasia: The 2026 Campaign is Underway
The 2026 Inspiring Workplaces Awards campaign in Australia & New Zealand is officially underway, and the energy is building fast.
At the helm is Regional Managing Director Ryan McGrory, supported by long-time collaborator Ali Killaly. Together, they’re driving the next phase of growth in Australasia, connecting local organisations to the global Inspiring Workplaces community and celebrating the everyday inspiration shaping the future of work.
And the campaign is already gaining momentum:
- Entries are now open for the 2026 Inspiring Workplaces Australasia Awards.
- A diverse and influential judging panel is being assembled to assess entries and share insights.
- We’re proud to welcome our inaugural partners: Headline Sponsors CU Health and Prezzee, and Gold Sponsor Workvivo, each committed to advancing PeopleFirst workplaces across the region.
Ryan is clear on what makes these awards different:
“These awards aren’t about glossy perfection. They’re about shining a light on the everyday inspiration in workplaces across Australia and New Zealand. From small businesses to household names, every organisation has a story worth sharing; and every organisation has a shot.”
Entrants are assessed across six key areas of working life: ‘Purpose & Culture, Leadership, Wellbeing, Employee Voice, Employee Experience, and Inclusion & Belonging’, ensuring recognition reflects a truly holistic approach to people-first practices.
But the campaign doesn’t stop at recognition. Winners and finalists will go on to showcase their approaches at the PeopleFirst Summit on October 22, giving the wider HR and business community access to the ideas, strategies, and lessons that fuelled their success.
This cycle of recognition and learning is what makes Inspiring Workplaces unique. As Ryan explains:
“Recognition is powerful, but transformation comes when ideas are shared. That’s why we’re creating a platform where winners tell their stories, and the rest of us can learn, adapt, and build better workplaces together.”
The ANZ campaign builds on Inspiring Workplaces’ global momentum, with established awards and events already running across the UK, North America, EMEA, and beyond.
Founder & CEO Matt Manners says:
“I’m excited to see the 2026 campaign launch in Australia and New Zealand. With Ryan and Ali leading the way, and the support of our fantastic partners, this region is set for a big year.”
Entries for 2026 are now open. If you know an organisation across Australia or New Zealand that should be recognised, share the Australasia Awards link.
