CELEBRATING THE BEST IN AUTOMOTIVE

The Automotive Industry Awards (AIA) celebrate the innovation, excellence and achievements that drive Victoria and Tasmania’s automotive sectors forward. From small workshops to major dealerships, these awards honour the individuals and businesses shaping the future of our industry.

 Entering the AIA is a powerful opportunity to showcase your team’s success, gain well-earned recognition and elevate your business profile. Open to both accredited and non-accredited VACC and TACC members, the awards highlight leadership, craftsmanship and community impact across the sector.

This year’s winners will be announced on Saturday 27 June 2026 at the elegant Palladium at Crown Melbourne. Hosted by the charismatic Shane Jacobson, the evening promises gourmet dining, captivating entertainment, live music, and dancing — a true celebration of automotive excellence. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate success, inspire your team and connect with industry peers. Mark your calendar for an unforgettable night of recognition and celebration.

The event also honours the next generation, with the VACC and TACC Automotive Apprenticeships’ awards recognising top-performing apprentices and graduating talent.

Don’t miss this chance to celebrate success, inspire your team, and connect with industry peers. Mark your calendar for an unforgettable night of recognition and celebration.

KEY DATES

KEY DATES

AIA applications open – early bird applicants gain access to premium seating at Automotive Industry Awards Dinner:
Monday 3 February 2026
Automotive Industry Awards Dinner general ticket sales open:
Friday 27 February 2026
AIA applications close:
Friday 13 March (4pm) 2026
Judging and auditing:
Monday 30 March – Friday 17 April 2026
AIA finalists notified:
Friday 24 April 2026
Automotive Industry Awards Dinner ticket sales close:
Friday 29 May 2026
AIA winners presentation:
Saturday 27 June 2026

event information

Venue: Palladium at Crown Melbourne

Date: Saturday 27 June 2026

Time: 6:30pm – 12 midnight

Dress Code: Cocktail – Black tie optional

Price: $250 per person $2,500 per table of 10 * Booking fees apply.

Accommodation

Make it a night to remember. Secure a night at one on Crowns Hotels. To secure the best rate and offers, book with Crown Direct. 

Tickets available 27th February

Cancellation Policy

14 days or more prior to event date, will receive a 100% refund.

5 days prior to the event will not receive a refund.

To cancel call 03 9829 1263 or email info@automotiveindustryawards.com.au

EVENT ENTERTAINMENT

The Voices Supergroup

Prepare for an unforgettable evening as the Voices Supergroup takes the stage! Featuring an all-star lineup including Jason Singh from Taxiride, Rai Thistlethwayte of Thirsty Merc, Rob Mills and Sarah C, this event promises to be a highlight of the year.  These renowned artists will perform their original chart-topping hits, bringing their unique styles and energy to the stage as they come together for a dynamic set of classic covers, delivering a musical experience that blends their individual talents into one extraordinary show.

FEATURED ACT

A Showgirl tribute to the King of Rock’n’roll. Put on your Blue Suede Shoes and get All Shook Up with an epic Elvis tribute! FX Entertainment Australia brings you the sensational feature show ‘Viva, Las Vegas Baby’. This super-spangly, high-octane entertainment show is based on Baz Luhrmann’s film ELVIS and will feature the best of his music.

Shane Jacobson

Shane Jacobson will be your host at the 2026 Automotive Industry Awards. An immediately identifiable and well-loved actor, presenter and knowledgeable automotive enthusiast with fuel coursing through his veins. When he’s not living his passion for high heels and lipstick in Hairspray The Musical, he’s tending to his numerous classic cars and trucks and motorcycles…

Message from the President

The Automotive Industry Awards honours high performing businesses, staff, and business owners across Victoria and Tasmania. It’s our time to shine. So, if you’re the best in the business, make sure you apply.

This year, we will present the Automotive Industry Awards winners at Crown Palladium on 27 June. We’ll also acknowledge our graduating apprentices and award winners from across Victoria and Tasmania.

It promises to be a fantastic night of celebration, entertainment, and networking. I look forward to seeing you there.