AIDN NT invites you to join us for the 2026 Gala Dinner and Industry Awards, a night celebrating the best of the best in Defence Industry in collaboration with:

ABOUT THE DINNER

The 2026 AIDN Northern Territory Gala Dinner and Industry Awards Night is the premier Defence Industry evening celebrating excellence, leadership, and contribution within Australia’s defence industry. The night will bring together industry leaders, government representatives, SMEs, and emerging talent from around Australia and sets the stage to recognise the outstanding achievements across the Northern Territory defence sector.

The AIDN NT Gala Dinner and Industry Awards Night is a highlight on the defence industry calendar and honours success, strengthens connections, and celebrates the people who help shape the future of Australia’s defence industry in the Northern Territory.

THE AWARDS

The evening will also feature two AIDN specific awards and seven Industry awards offered by the Chief Minister of the Northern Territory and Defence NT.  The awards will showcase individuals and businesses working within the Defence Industry in the Northern Territory and celebrate their achievements during 2025.

AIDN NT YOUNG ACHIEVER AWARD

This award recognizes the next generation of talent shaping the defence industry in the Northern Territory. This prestigious award celebrates young professionals who demonstrate exceptional skill, innovation, and leadership in their field. Their contributions drive industry growth, inspire future leaders, and strengthen Australia’s sovereign capability.

Nominate here: AIDN NT Young Achiever Award

Nominations close: 5pm, Tuesday 31st March 2026 ACST.

AIDN DEFENCE INDUSTRY CONTRIBUTION EXCELLENCE AWARD

The AIDN Defence Industry Contribution Excellence Award recognises individuals over the age of 30 who have demonstrated exceptional commitment, expertise, and impact within Australia’s defence industry. It celebrates those whose sustained contributions strengthen sovereign capability, advance industry growth, and support national security outcomes.

Nominate here: AIDN Defence Industry Contribution Award

Nominations Close: 5pm, Tuesday 31st March 2026 ACST.

CHIEF MINISTER AND DEFENCE NT INDUSTRY AWARDS:

Nominate your business and be recognised as a leader in excellence, innovation, and impact within the NT’s defence industry. This is your chance to showcase your achievements, elevate your profile, and highlight the role you play in building a stronger, more resilient Defence in the North.

• 2026 AIDN Defence Industry Contribution Excellence Award (DICE)
• Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Award for Veteran Employer of the Year 2026
• Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Award for Veteran Employee of the Year 2026
• Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Award for Veteran Partner Entrepreneur of the Year 2026
• Chief Ministers Award for Excellence in Defence Industry 2026
• Chief Ministers Award for Excellence in Defence Industry – Small Business 2026
• Chief Ministers Award for Excellence in Defence Industry – Indigenous Business 2026

Nominate here: Chief Minister and Defence NT Industry Awards

Nominations Close: 5pm, Friday 27th February 2026

AIDN NT GALA DINNER EVENT DETAILS:

Date: Tuesday, 28th April, 2026

Time: 1830 ACST for canapes, pre-dinner drinks and photo opportunities

Location: Darwin Convention Centre, Darwin, NT, 0800

Dress: Territory Formal, Black Tie or Mess Kit with Miniatures, Ladies – Formal Attire.

RSVP: 5pm, Friday 17th April 2026 ACST

Ticket sales will be available shortly.  Join the Waitlist now to secure your Early Bird Ticket!

*Please note that tickets are non-transferrable and non-refundable.

*AIDN Members – Please see your emails for your Promo Code to access hidden AIDN member prices and Combo-deals!

REGISTRATIONS ARE ESSENTIAL

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES:

Why not join us and promote your business to like-minded Defence Industry businesses, Government, and Defence Primes at this premier Defence Industry event?

Choose from Gold, Silver and Bronze level sponsorships along with our ever-popular Pre-Dinner Drinks package. All categories include fantastic promotional opportunities and tickets, so why not get in early to maximise your promotional exposure today!

For more information contact [email protected], or complete our online Sponsorship Form for a callback to discuss.

TERMS & CONDITIONS:

Please take time to read through the following terms and conditions that will apply to this event. Acceptance of these terms and conditions are implied if a ticket is purchased for this event:

• Tickets are non-transferrable and non-refundable.
• If you are feeling unwell or have a fever, please do not attend the event and notify AIDN on [email protected] so your ticket can be reallocated.
• Please use hand sanitiser before entering the event. There will also be plenty of hand sanitiser inside for your use and we encourage regular use of the hand sanitiser.
• These terms and conditions are subject to change and we endeavour to advise you of these changes as soon as we can.
• By purchasing a ticket to this event, you understand and acknowledge that photographs will be taken in which you may appear, and that these images will be used in future AIDN marketing collateral.