Recognising Australia’s HVAC&R industry

The AIRAH National Awards recognise Australia’s HVAC&R building services industry. Join us in celebrating excellence and achievement across the sector! Our annual gala dinner is the opportunity to celebrate the industry’s high achievers, stand-out projects, and ground-breaking research.

AIRAH National Awards 2026

Nominations for the AIRAH National Awards 2026 are now open.

If you know of a person or project deserving of one or more of the below awards please nominate them by using the form provided.

For any enquiries please contact awards@airah.org.au.

2026 Award Categories

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.

Prize: Exclusive site tour opportunity where the project is highlighted as an industry benchmark.

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.

Prize: Curated innovation showcase at AIRAH’s flagship Future of HVAC conference exhibition space.

Excellence in Refrigeration Award

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

Prize: Complimentary registration and exhibiting booth at AIRAH’s RefCon27 conference.

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.

Prize: Full page profile feature highlighting their contribution and impact in AIRAH’s Ecolibrium magazine and online article.

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.

Prize: Feature interview in AIRAH’s publications and social media and opportunity to shadow the AIRAH Board, gaining first-hand exposure to its strategic discussions, decision-making processes, and leadership in shaping the industry.

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.

VET Prize: Bunnings toolbox kit and the opportunity to shadow a selected committee’s Associate Director

Higher Education Prize: An AIRAH Professional Education course voucher (valued at $1000) and the opportunity to shadow a selected committee’s Associate Director