Conference & Awards

Annual ACPA Conference

The annual ACPA Conference has been a fixture for the association since its inception. Along with the awards, the conference is a highlight on the calendar for members, affording them the opportunity for professional development and networking.

The conference draws inspiration from a chosen theme. A range of knowledgeable guest speakers and panellists are invited to present and challenge those in attendance. The days aim to stimulate conversation, bring new perspectives, and inform members in attendance, hopefully inspiring all as storytellers and a voice for the Catholic faith.

It’s not all hard work and intensity though; the conference is sprinkled with more informal opportunities to gather and network. There is usually a social activity planned and casual dining in the evenings. Many members find the connections and friendships formed through ACPA, especially the conference, invaluable.

Annual ACPA Awards

Held annually, the ACPA Awards aim to both encourage and reward excellence in all aspects of Catholic publishing and media. The Australasian Catholic Press Association recognises and celebrates the invaluable contribution of the Catholic media (print and digital) in the contemporary world. The award ceremony is held as part of the annual conference.

Judges are experienced media professionals qualified to evaluate and critically appraise the entries submitted.

To be eligible to enter the Awards, and to attend the annual conference, entrants must be financial members of ACPA for the coming financial year. Membership status can be checked by contacting the ACPA Treasurer, [email protected].

2026 ACPA Awards — Conditions of Entry

  • The eligibility period for the 2026 Awards is work published between 1 January 2025 and 31 December 2025 inclusive.
  • Each category, from 1 to 19, includes a Winner and a Highly Commended.
  • Each Member Publication may submit up to 12 entries — one category is one entry, and only one entry per category is permitted per Member Organisation or Associate Member. An Associate Member may submit up to 4 entries.
  • Entries must be submitted through the JotForm link below. Electronic files (PDF, MP4 or MP3) must be named with the Category number and Publication Name. Multiple URL links should be pasted into a single Word document.
  • Entries are reviewed by the ACPA executive for adherence to the criteria before being forwarded to the judges.
  • Entries must be received no later than 11.59pm (AEST) on Friday 24 July 2026. Entries received after that date, or which do not meet the criteria and category requirements, cannot be accepted.
  • Winners are announced and awards presented at the 2026 ACPA Annual Awards night on Thursday 27 August 2026.

The Categories and Criteria document forms part of the Conditions of Entry and lists the requirements for each of the categories.

For more information contact Jamie O’Brien — phone 08 9220 5900 or 0400 808 601, or email [email protected].