2026 Nominations

Nominations close: 17 August, 2026

Please use the form below to nominate a project or person for an AIRAH National Award for 2026.

After the closing date all nominations will be reviewed and by a panel of experts. If more information is required on any application the applicant may be contacted by the panel.

Awards nominations form 2026 (#146)

Applicant details


Award Category


Choosing the award category will reveal further specific questions and inputs regarding the project.

Award criteria

After choosing the appropriate award category please indicate how your project meets the award criteria by ticking the applicable boxes and a written explanation of the project’s performance. 


Excellence in HVAC – Best New Project Award

Recognises outstanding delivery of a newly built HVAC system, demonstrating excellence in design, installation, performance and overall project execution.

Criteria:

Evidence of performance

Provide clear, non-marketing evidence to demonstrate project performance. This may include:

  • Performance data (KPIs, impact metrics)
  • Independent evaluations
  • Testimonials (include name/role/date if permitted)
  • Comparisons or benchmarks (pre/post intervention)
Excellence in HVAC – Best Retrofit Project Award

Awards excellence in upgrading or modernising existing HVAC systems, with a focus on improved efficiency, performance, and sustainability outcomes.

Criteria:

Evidence of performance

Provide clear, non-marketing evidence to demonstrate project performance. This may include:

  • Performance data (KPIs, impact metrics)
  • Independent evaluations
  • Testimonials (include name/role/date if permitted)
  • Comparisons or benchmarks (pre/post intervention)
Excellence in Refrigeration Award

Celebrates excellence in the design, installation or operation of refrigeration systems, including innovation, efficiency and environmental performance.

Criteria:

Evidence of performance

Provide clear, non-marketing evidence to demonstrate project performance. This may include:

  • Performance data (KPIs, impact metrics)
  • Independent evaluations
  • Testimonials (include name/role/date if permitted)
  • Comparisons or benchmarks (pre/post intervention)
Industry Advancement & Inclusion Award

Recognises individuals who make significant contributions to the advancement of the HVAC&R industry through knowledge sharing, research, education, thought leadership, and initiatives that foster diversity, inclusion, and a stronger professional community.

Criteria:
Supporting documents upload
Future Leader (VET or Higher Education) Award

Recognises outstanding postgraduate students and emerging professionals who demonstrate leadership, initiative, and a commitment to advancing the HVAC&R industry. This award celebrates individuals making significant academic, research, or applied contributions while showing strong potential to become future leaders of the profession.

Criteria:

Eligibility:

In the past 12 months, students and emerging professionals who demonstrate leadership, initiative, and a commitment to advancing the HVAC&R industry

Nominee details
Key selection criteria

1. Leadership & Initiative

Describe how the nominee has demonstrated leadership, initiative or influence within their studies, workplace or industry involvement:

2. Academic or Research Contribution

Outline the nominee’s academic achievements, research work, innovation or technical contributions relevant to HVAC&R or the built environment:

1. Industry Engagement

Describe involvement in:

  • Industry activities
  • Student chapters
  • Mentoring
  • Volunteering
  • Conferences/events
  • Committees or projects

4. Future Potential

How is the nominee likely to contribute to the future of the HVAC&R industry?

Supporting Evidence

Upload section for supporting evidence including:

  • Academic transcript (optional)
  • Research papers/projects
  • Awards or recognitions
  • Portfolio or presentation materials
  • Reference letters
  • Community involvement

Referees

Require 1–2 referees:

  • Academic referee
  • Industry/professional referee
Student of the Year (VET or Higher Education) Award

Recognises an outstanding student who demonstrates exceptional academic and technical achievement, dedication to their studies, and a strong commitment to the HVAC&R industry. This award celebrates individuals who show significant potential to make a positive impact on the profession.

Criteria:

Eligibility:

In the past 12 months, students who demonstrate exceptional academic and technical achievement, dedication to their studies, and a strong commitment to the HVAC&R industry.

Nominee details
Nominator Details

1. Technical Excellence

Describe the nominee’s technical capability, workmanship and understanding of industry practices.

2. Commitment & Professionalism

Provide examples demonstrating:

  • Reliability
  • Work ethic
  • Safety awareness
  • Initiative
  • Teamwork

3. Industry Potential

Why does the nominee stand out as a future industry leader or high-performing technician/tradesperson?

4. Achievements & Contributions

Include examples such as:

  • Outstanding projects
  • Competition participation
  • Additional training
  • Customer service
  • Innovation/problem solving
Upload supporting evidence

Upload section for supporting evidence including:

  • Employer endorsements
  • Training results/transcripts
  • Photos of projects/work
  • Certificates or awards
  • Workplace achievements

Referees

Require 1–2 referees:

  • Employer/supervisor referee
  • Academic referee

Declaration

By checking the box below, I declare that the information provided is accurate and that I am authorised to submit this nomination.