Award Categories

Nominations are now open

Our independent judging panel is keen to identify individuals, organisations or groups who've truly set themselves apart. We want to hear from every corner of the Australian maritime sector and encourage you to take part and nominate individuals, organisations or groups you think deserve to be recognised. Eligibility for nominations spans across the board – businesses, corporate entities, nonprofits, and private individuals alike. Feel free to nominate oneself, a valued client, or a customer for any award category.

Award Categories

The DCN Australian Shipping & Maritime Industry Awards celebrate excellence across various categories. Here are the categories for 2026.

Back to Awards Categories

Seafarers Welfare Award

This award recognises outstanding commitment to the mental, physical, social and pastoral welfare of seafarers by an individual, company, organisation or industry initiative.

Open to shipping companies, maritime service providers, welfare organisations, charities, ports, industry bodies and individuals, the award celebrates those making a meaningful difference to the lives and wellbeing of seafarers through programs, advocacy, support services, community engagement, financial assistance or welfare initiatives.

The award recognises efforts that improve the welfare, safety, wellbeing, inclusion or quality of life of seafarers, whether through direct support, long-term programs, partnerships or industry leadership.

Judges will consider:

  • demonstrated commitment to supporting the wellbeing and welfare of seafarers
  • specific programs, initiatives, services or actions undertaken
  • evidence of positive outcomes or measurable impact on seafarers, their families or the broader maritime community
  • contribution to mental health, physical wellbeing, social connection, pastoral care or inclusion
  • innovation, leadership or advocacy in advancing seafarer welfare
  • supporting evidence, including testimonials, participation rates, case studies, partnerships, funding provided or other indicators of impact
Why enter or nominate for an award?

Gain national recognition and elevate yourself and your business.

The awards are open to individuals and businesses involved in or supporting the Australian Shipping & Maritime Logistics industry.

1. Stand out in a competitive market

For organisations, securing a DCN Australian Shipping & Maritime Industry award will set you apart from your competitors. For individuals, recognition will underpin career advancement and offer industry-wide recognition.

2. Highlight your achievements

Judged by a highly regarded, independent and trusted panel and backed by a rigorous methodology for assessment, a DCN Australian Shipping & Maritime Industry award is peer-reviewed recognition of your capabilities and passion for driving the industry forward.

3. Reinforce your contribution to the industry’s growth and success

A DCN Australian Shipping & Maritime Industry award can reaffirm the role of your organisation, or you personally, in supporting the growth of our industry, especially as cargo enters a new era and embraces technological innovation.