The Victorian Tourism Awards represent an industry framework for peer recognition which fosters a culture for business development excellence and innovation. The Awards have assisted the Victorian Tourism Industry for over 30 years in striving for excellence. During this period, more than 3,000 businesses have entered the Awards and have benefited through thorough examination of their business practice, with many recognised as winners at a national level.
Winners and Finalists of the Victorian Tourism Awards are determined by achieving a score of 75% or above. The winner is the highest scoring entrant in each category. Hall of Fame is awarded to an entrant that has won the same category over 3 consecutive years.
In Victoria, there are 31 categories (made up of 28 business and 3 that recognise individuals). Winners of categories 1 through to 25 are automatically judged at the Australian Tourism Awards for a chance to be recognised as the best in the country. In 2019, VTIC and RACV have also re-introduced the People's Choice Awards. General public can vote for their favourite business from the list of nominees.
Entering the Victorian Tourism Awards is an online entry process combined with a site visit from a judge. Entrants must provide responses in their submission that relate to their activity in the financial year 2018/19. Winners of categories 1 through to 25 automatically enter the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards for a chance at being recognised as the best in the country.