We Make it
here.
Hunter Manufacturing Awards 2026
For more than two decades, the Hunter Manufacturing Awards has celebrated the strength, skill, and determination of the manufacturers who build our region from the ground up.
In 2026, we proudly declare We Make It Here. It is a statement of capability, commitment, and confidence. It speaks to the businesses that design, engineer, fabricate, and produce locally, backing their people, their supply chains, and their communities.
Across the Hunter, Central Coast, New England, and Mid-North Coast, manufacturers are proving that world-class outcomes do not have to come from somewhere else. They are made here, through hard-won expertise, advanced technology and a deep understanding of place.
We Make It Here is about more than location. It is about ownership, resilience, and pride in building something that lasts. In 2026, the Hunter Manufacturing Awards shines a spotlight on the people and businesses who continue to invest locally, compete globally, and shape the future of Australian manufacturing.
HMA 2026 TIMELINE
HMA Launch event Thursday, 14th May
HMA 2026 Applications Open 14th May
Finalists Announced 1st October
HMA 2026 Gala Event 30th October
Why Enter the HUnter manufacturing awards?
This is more than an awards night, it’s your chance to stand out, grow, and shape your future.
More reasons to enter
the hunter manufacturing awards
National Recognition – Bigger Opportunities
As of 2025, HMA winners will automatically advance as finalists in the inaugural Australian Manufacturing Awards, thanks to our partnership with Industry Update. Regional excellence, now recognised nationwide.
AwardForce – A Smarter Entry Experience
We use Australia’s leading awards software - AwardForce for entries, to bring you a seamless and trusted entry process.
- Easy, efficient submissions
- Built-in guidance to help you shine
- Multilingual support
- Secure access
Entrant experience matters—AwardForce helps make it simple, accessible, and rewarding.
Streamlined Criteria - less is more
We've simplified the entry process, making it quicker and more accessible for businesses of all sizes. With fewer questions, clearer criteria, and a stronger focus on what really matters, now it’s easier than ever to tell your story.
new AWARD categories
Digital Transformation Award – Recognising outstanding use of digital technologies to boost efficiency, reduce costs, and drive innovation.
Diversity in Manufacturing Award – Celebrating businesses that foster inclusive, accessible, and equitable workplaces.
New website, new systems, better HMA
In 2025 we launched a new website, adopted a CRM, and implemented a project management system, helping us deliver a more responsive, connected, and tech-savvy experience for everyone involved.
Telling manufacturing stories further
We’re amplifying the voice of local manufacturing through targeted PR, media partnerships, and the NTP Engineering Success podcast. With stories featured in The Herald, Hunter Business Review, Industry Update, and other national platforms, HMA is helping to showcase your success to the audiences that matter.
hma could not happen without our amazing
sponsors, partners and supporters
Latest HMA News
Is your business part of Our region?
If you’re located in the Hunter, Central Coast, New England, or Mid-North Coast and actively engaged in manufacturing, whether directly producing goods or playing a key role in the supply chain, the Hunter Manufacturing Awards are for you.
From ambitious start-ups to long-established leaders, HMA exists to recognise the breadth and depth of manufacturing talent in our region. We celebrate your achievements, spotlight your impact, and help connect you to new opportunities through recognition, visibility, and industry engagement.
Be part of forging our future
There’s never been a better time to celebrate your achievements and show the world what regional manufacturing can do.
Quick Contact
Get the latest from Hunter Manufacturing Awards