Launched in 1995, the UDIA Victoria Awards program was established by the development industry to recognise excellence and innovation across the state. Receiving an Award is both a highly valued acknowledgement of outstanding work and a significant honour. The program is unapologetically rigorous, spanning eight months from launch through to the completion of judging. We take our responsibility in administering the Awards seriously. Judges conduct in-person project site visits and leadership interviews, and carefully review all written submissions. This robust process recognises the considerable effort of entrants and ensures a thorough, transparent, and credible assessment across all categories.
Leadership Awards
Employer of Choice Award
This award recognises organisations that demonstrate excellence in creating, promoting and sustaining a positive, inclusive and high-performing workplace culture. It celebrates organisations that are exemplary in fostering engagement, diversity and employee wellbeing.
Eligibility
- Organisation must maintain a UDIA Victoria financial membership throughout the nomination, judging and awards process
- Must have a minimum five years’ continual operation in the property industry or an associated sector
- Entrants may self-nominate , or be nominated by a third party
- State winner is eligible to enter the UDIA National Awards Diversity in Development category.
Judging Criteria
- Workplace Culture: commitment to a positive, respectful and inclusive environment
- Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: initiatives supporting equitable opportunities across all levels
- Leadership and Values: demonstration of strong leadership and organisational values
- Employee Development: investment in learning, professional development, mentoring and career progression
- Wellbeing: initiatives promoting health, safety and wellbeing
- Industry Leadership: Contribution to broader industry best practice
Women in Leadership Award
This award recognises a female professional who demonstrates outstanding leadership, positively influences organisational culture and drives innovation across the Victorian property industry. It celebrates the impact and achievement of women, acknowledging those who shape projects and organisations while inspiring the next generation of industry leaders.
Eligibility
- Must be employed by a current UDIA Victoria member. The organisation must maintain financial membership throughout the nomination, judging and awards process
- Must be based in Victoria and available for an in-person interview
- Must have a minimum of ten years’ relevant industry experience
- Entrants may self-nominate, be nominated by their organisation, or by a third party
- Entrants may submit across multiple years if they have not previously won the award
- State winner is eligible to enter the UDIA National Women in Leadership Award category
Judging Criteria
- Demonstrated leadership within an organisation and/or the broader industry
- Evidence of innovation introduced to the workplace, industry or specific projects
- Positive influence on organisational culture and/or the development industry
- Active contribution as a mentor or role model for emerging professionals, particularly in promoting women or broader diversity
- Assessment based on genuine industry contribution, not seniority or job title
Winner Entitlements
- Complimentary entry into the UDIA National Awards for Excellence
- Complimentary registration to attend the UDIA National Awards for Excellence Gala Event*
- Invitation to join the current UDIA Victoria Member Engagement & Inclusion Committee
*This prize is awarded to the confirmed winner and is non-transferable and must be used at the National Congress immediately following the UDIA Victoria Awards. Flights and accommodation are at the entrant’s expense.
Young Leader of the Year Award
This award recognises a stand-out emerging professional shaping the future of Victoria’s urban development industry through leadership, initiative and influence. It celebrates early to mid-career individuals who demonstrate strong potential, momentum and commitment to industry excellence. Past recipients have progressed to highly successful careers, including ongoing involvement with UDIA committees.
Eligibility
- Must be employed by a current UDIA Victoria member. The organisation must maintain financial membership throughout the nomination, judging and awards process
- Must be under 35 years of age by 31 December 2026
- Must be based in Victoria and available for an in-person interview
- Must have a minimum of five years’ relevant industry experience
- Entrants can be nominated by their organisation, a third party, or be self-nominated
- Entrants may submit across multiple years if they have not previously won the award
- State winner is eligible to enter the UDIA National Young Leader’s Award category
Judging Criteria
- Demonstrated leadership behaviours, initiative and ability to act as a role model
- Tangible contribution and emerging influence within the urban development industry
- Evidence of career progression through increased scope, responsibility and impact
- Strong commitment to industry values, collaboration and professional excellence
Winner Entitlements
- Complimentary entry into the UDIA National Awards for Excellence
- Complimentary registration to attend the UDIA National Awards for Excellence Gala Event*
- Invitation to join the current UDIA Victoria Outlook Committee
*This prize is awarded to the confirmed winner, is non-transferable, and must be used for the National Congress immediately following the UDIA Victoria Awards. Flights and accommodation are at the entrant’s expense.
