Arrow

2024 Entries

Download '23 Entry Kit

Pause Awards 2024 open on 15 May. Mark the date!

We are thrilled to introduce Pause NomiGPT™, a powerful agent designed to assist you in swiftly creating first or final drafts and optimising your internal processes. With this chatbot, you can concentrate on gathering essential information such as business success, results and the impact your company has achieved, while letting the agent handle the writing for you. Access to this efficient chatbot requires a paid subscription to OpenAI’s ChatGPT 4.

FAQ

Below are the most essential FAQ’s that you need to enter.

For any further questions, please email us at info@pauseawards.com

  • Writing your entry

    Entries can be edited up to the final deadline, ensuring they are tailored to the specific category entered. Avoid duplicating content across multiple entries for a more personalised approach. Post-payment, you’re free to revise your entry until the final deadline. Utilise the ‘Copy from application’ feature for efficiency across categories. Utilise the NomiGPT™ chatbot helper for assistance throughout the submission process. 

  • Entry Bundles & Deals

    30% Off for Judges and Alumni
    Exclusive discount for our esteemed judges and valued Alumni. Contact us.

    21.7% Off for Female-Led Companies
    Supporting diversity with special discounts for female leadership. Contact us.

    $50 Off on Subscription
    Subscribe to our newsletter for an instant $50 saving on your entry. 

    Helping Hand
    Facing financial challenges? Email us to discuss a personalised offer. Contact us.

    1 Free Entry for Every 3: Maximise your chances without stretching your budget.
    2 Free Entries for Every 5: Double the opportunity, double the potential.
    3 Free Entries for Every 10: The best value for extensive participation.

    Trophy Offer
    Third Trophy is On Us: Win three awards in a year, and the third trophy is complimentary.

  • Privacy & Security

    Your application and business information is collected for private and internal use only. Rest assured that private information will never be published publicly, or shared with anyone.

  • Making a payment

    Finalise your entry with payment to secure participation and benefit from early rates and multiple category discounts.

  • Important dates & fees

    All entries must be submitted by midnight on each deadline.

    Entries Open
    Wednesday 15 May 2024

    Launch Entries Deadline
    Friday 24 May 2024

    Early Entries Deadline
    Friday 14 June 2024

    Standard Entries Deadline
    Friday 16 August 2024

    Late Entries Deadline
    Friday 30 Aug 2024

  • Investable Score™

    Is not a financial valuation, but rather an indication of whether industry professionals are compelled to invest after evaluating an entry. Scores range from zero to 10 points/$M and are presented as a printed certificate in the Winner Pack, along with a trophy.

  • Submission criteria

    1. Entries should highlight achievements between 1 July 2022 and 1 June 2023.
    2. Entries Open on Wednesday 15 May 2024, Launch Entries Deadline is on Friday 24 May 2024, Early Entries Deadline is on Friday 14 June 2024, Standard Entries Deadline is on Friday 16 August 2024, Late Entries Deadline is on Friday 30 Aug 2024.
    3. Entry fees vary from $295 for Early Entry to $495 for Late Entry.
    4. Judges will base their decisions solely on written entries without conducting additional research.
    5. Entrants have the option to submit entries in multiple categories using the same or different projects.
    6. Individual entrants must have been employed for at least one year prior to entering and should use their personal name, not their company’s name.
    7. If utilising ChatGPT for entry writing, please focus on providing detailed information and specific results rather than well-crafted applications.
    8. If nominating an individual or company, entrants must enter on their behalf and provide all necessary information for website profile creation and promotion.
    9. For individual entries, kindly provide a personal biography and relevant personal information, not company-related details.
    10. There is no set number of winners per category.
    11. The People’s Choice Award will involve all entrants, but only one will win.
    12. All sections of the entry questions must be completed for judging purposes; incomplete entries will be disqualified.
    13. There is no extra cost for special award categories such as Grand Prix, Champion, Diamond and Hall of Fame, you get internally nominated and elevated.
    14. Website profile setting questions and photos must be submitted finalist post-announcement and before the Pause Awards Night.
    15. If you anticipate being away when ordering trophies, please inform us to ensure timely delivery or make alternative arrangements.
    16. If the trophy is sent to a wrong address you will need to order and pay for a new one.
    17. You don’t have to attend Pause Awards Night, but we expect you will bring the entire team and friends to it.

  • Check your eligibility

    1. Open to Australian individuals and companies.
    2. Eligible projects must occur between 1 January 2023 and 15 May 2024.
    3. Only projects with results should enter; those in development are ineligible.
    4. Submissions must have been implemented in the marketplace.
    5. National companies may submit multiple projects.
    6. Entries from partners and sponsors are accepted without bias.
    7. Judges to avoid voting for their own company to maintain fairness.
    8. Limit of one judge per company.
    9. Government entities, NGOs, and agencies are encouraged to participate.
    10. All fees are in AUD and are non-refundable.
    11. The awards are open to all industries.

See who won Pause Awards '23

Read more

Category tracks

The Culture track seeks entries that exemplify the development of an inclusive and collaborative workplace culture, crucial for organisational success and growth. Submissions should illustrate transformative strategies implemented across core business functions, reflecting expertise, leadership, and a clear vision. These strategies should demonstrate a positive impact on the business, its employees, stakeholders, and customers, showcasing how a nurturing culture contributes to overall growth and innovation.

The Excellence track celebrates businesses that have demonstrated remarkable success and impact within their industry, regardless of their size. Entries for this category should illustrate how the business's strategic execution, guided by visionary leadership and exceptional expertise, has significantly influenced the industry. The focus will be on the tangible outcomes of these strategies, highlighting the company's ability to innovate, lead, and leave a lasting impression in its field.

The Good track is focused on recognising companies dedicated to their mission of creating a positive societal impact. Entries should highlight innovative solutions aimed at addressing global challenges such as environmental sustainability, social equity, and community well-being. Successful submissions will demonstrate how their initiatives contribute to significant changes, tackling issues like gender inequality, social imbalance, and injustice, thereby setting a precedent for responsible and impactful business practices.

Awarded to a single entry in a category, Grand Prix is the top accolade in that category. To win the Grand Prix, the entire Judging Board must unanimously agree that the entry deserves the accolade of being the best in that category.

The Growth track is about showcasing how businesses have enhanced productivity and execution to make a significant impact in their market. Entries should highlight innovative strategies that have optimised the customer journey, leading to increased engagement and commercial success. This track is for those who have effectively used their understanding of the market and customer needs to scale their business and achieve notable growth.

The Operators track seeks entries that showcase leadership in fostering innovation within their ecosystems. Ideal submissions will highlight how your initiatives have catalysed the creation of new products or services, bolstered by a culture that uplifts internal teams and the wider community. This track celebrates those who drive progress by empowering voices and forging transformative connections in their industry.

Categories

  • Diverse Co.

    Celebrates workplaces dedicated to fostering innovation through a vibrant tapestry of diverse talents and perspectives.

  • Large team culture

    Honours organisations with 1000+ employees that lead the way in nurturing a dynamic and innovative work environment.

  • Medium team culture

    Recognises mid-sized companies (21-999 employees) for their exceptional efforts in cultivating a culture that champions innovation.

  • Small team culture

    Applauds small teams of fewer than 20 employees for their remarkable ability to foster innovation and set new benchmarks in their domain.

  • Work sweet work

    Acknowledges companies that have achieved extraordinary employee engagement, satisfaction, and retention, creating an exemplary workplace culture.

  • Company of the Year

    Celebrating a standout company known for exemplary leadership, resilience, and strategic vision, underpinned by robust plans for future growth.

  • Defiant ones

    Recognising firms that lead technological breakthroughs, setting new standards and defining the future of their industries.

  • Hammer

    Acknowledging companies that have carved their success path in the market, defining success on their own terms.

  • I wish I'd done that

    Applauding ingenious, simple solutions in niche markets that spark a universal sentiment of admiration.

  • On the rise

    Celebrating early-stage startups that have shown remarkable progress and success in their initial years.

  • Prodigy

    Recognising young visionaries under 30 with outstanding talents and achievements, setting them apart in their fields.

  • Singularity

    Highlighting AI-driven companies that are pioneering new services or integrating AI to create innovative products.

  • Women in business

    Celebrating female entrepreneurs and leaders who are forging paths for future generations by creating more equitable opportunities.

  • B-Good

    Recognises businesses that redefine commercial success by positively transforming our economic system for the benefit of all stakeholders.

  • Circular Pioneer

    Celebrates companies at the forefront of circular economy practices, making substantial and sustainable differences.

  • Going green

    Acknowledges companies leading large-scale sustainable initiatives, addressing critical areas like clean energy and environmental justice.

  • You've got ethics

    Commends companies exemplifying leadership in environmental and social governance, setting standards in corporate responsibility and ethical practices.

  • Design first

    Celebrates companies where design is the heartbeat of innovation, engaging the whole team in crafting groundbreaking products.

  • Great pivot

    Acknowledges companies that adeptly navigate change, leveraging insights to pivot towards delivering outstanding products.

  • Movement

    Recognises unforgettable event experiences that resonate emotionally, drive social change, or achieve viral status.

  • New model

    Honours businesses revolutionising markets with elegant and disruptive business models.

  • Out of the garage

    Applauds companies that have expanded their reach globally, showcasing exceptional growth and international success.

  • Wildfire

    Celebrates companies that have rapidly and significantly impacted their marketplace, setting new standards for success.

  • Angel

    Honours visionary angel investors who've significantly contributed to early-stage startups, guiding them toward success.

  • C-Suite

    Recognises exceptional leadership qualities in high-ranking executives, showcasing their management and interpersonal excellence.

  • Down under

    Acknowledges international companies making a noteworthy entrance into the Australian market, enriching the local business ecosystem.

  • Ecosystem star

    Celebrates individuals who energise and nurture their communities, fostering engagement and advocacy.

  • Future builder

    Recognises the determination and resilience of founders who've embarked on the challenging journey of starting their own ventures.

  • Silent achiever

    Applauds the unsung heroes whose behind-the-scenes efforts have led to flawless project executions and exceeded expectations.

  • TopCoder

    Recognises developers for their outstanding technical skills, clean code, and collaborative spirit.

  • Venture cap

    Salutes venture capital firms with a track record of backing transformative businesses, contributing significantly to Australia's economic growth.

  • Champion

    Awarded to a single entry in all five Category Track, Champion is the top accolade from all categories in that track. To win the Champion, you need to be at Grand Prix level or score the most points.

  • Diamond

    Awarded to a best-in-show, Diamond is the highest accolade at Pause Awards. To win the Diamond, you need to be one of the five Champion winners.

  • Grand Prix

    Awarded to a single entry in a category, Grand Prix is the top accolade in that category. To win the Grand Prix, the entire Judging Board must unanimously agree that the entry deserves the accolade of being the best in that category.

Drag

Category tracks

The Culture track seeks entries that exemplify the development of an inclusive and collaborative workplace culture, crucial for organisational success and growth. Submissions should illustrate transformative strategies implemented across core business functions, reflecting expertise, leadership, and a clear vision. These strategies should demonstrate a positive impact on the business, its employees, stakeholders, and customers, showcasing how a nurturing culture contributes to overall growth and innovation.

The Excellence track celebrates businesses that have demonstrated remarkable success and impact within their industry, regardless of their size. Entries for this category should illustrate how the business's strategic execution, guided by visionary leadership and exceptional expertise, has significantly influenced the industry. The focus will be on the tangible outcomes of these strategies, highlighting the company's ability to innovate, lead, and leave a lasting impression in its field.

The Good track is focused on recognising companies dedicated to their mission of creating a positive societal impact. Entries should highlight innovative solutions aimed at addressing global challenges such as environmental sustainability, social equity, and community well-being. Successful submissions will demonstrate how their initiatives contribute to significant changes, tackling issues like gender inequality, social imbalance, and injustice, thereby setting a precedent for responsible and impactful business practices.

Awarded to a single entry in a category, Grand Prix is the top accolade in that category. To win the Grand Prix, the entire Judging Board must unanimously agree that the entry deserves the accolade of being the best in that category.

The Growth track is about showcasing how businesses have enhanced productivity and execution to make a significant impact in their market. Entries should highlight innovative strategies that have optimised the customer journey, leading to increased engagement and commercial success. This track is for those who have effectively used their understanding of the market and customer needs to scale their business and achieve notable growth.

The Operators track seeks entries that showcase leadership in fostering innovation within their ecosystems. Ideal submissions will highlight how your initiatives have catalysed the creation of new products or services, bolstered by a culture that uplifts internal teams and the wider community. This track celebrates those who drive progress by empowering voices and forging transformative connections in their industry.

Categories

  • Diverse Co.

    Celebrates workplaces dedicated to fostering innovation through a vibrant tapestry of diverse talents and perspectives.

  • Large team culture

    Honours organisations with 1000+ employees that lead the way in nurturing a dynamic and innovative work environment.

  • Medium team culture

    Recognises mid-sized companies (21-999 employees) for their exceptional efforts in cultivating a culture that champions innovation.

  • Small team culture

    Applauds small teams of fewer than 20 employees for their remarkable ability to foster innovation and set new benchmarks in their domain.

  • Work sweet work

    Acknowledges companies that have achieved extraordinary employee engagement, satisfaction, and retention, creating an exemplary workplace culture.

  • Company of the Year

    Celebrating a standout company known for exemplary leadership, resilience, and strategic vision, underpinned by robust plans for future growth.

  • Defiant ones

    Recognising firms that lead technological breakthroughs, setting new standards and defining the future of their industries.

  • Hammer

    Acknowledging companies that have carved their success path in the market, defining success on their own terms.

  • I wish I'd done that

    Applauding ingenious, simple solutions in niche markets that spark a universal sentiment of admiration.

  • On the rise

    Celebrating early-stage startups that have shown remarkable progress and success in their initial years.

  • Prodigy

    Recognising young visionaries under 30 with outstanding talents and achievements, setting them apart in their fields.

  • Singularity

    Highlighting AI-driven companies that are pioneering new services or integrating AI to create innovative products.

  • Women in business

    Celebrating female entrepreneurs and leaders who are forging paths for future generations by creating more equitable opportunities.

  • B-Good

    Recognises businesses that redefine commercial success by positively transforming our economic system for the benefit of all stakeholders.

  • Circular Pioneer

    Celebrates companies at the forefront of circular economy practices, making substantial and sustainable differences.

  • Going green

    Acknowledges companies leading large-scale sustainable initiatives, addressing critical areas like clean energy and environmental justice.

  • You've got ethics

    Commends companies exemplifying leadership in environmental and social governance, setting standards in corporate responsibility and ethical practices.

  • Design first

    Celebrates companies where design is the heartbeat of innovation, engaging the whole team in crafting groundbreaking products.

  • Great pivot

    Acknowledges companies that adeptly navigate change, leveraging insights to pivot towards delivering outstanding products.

  • Movement

    Recognises unforgettable event experiences that resonate emotionally, drive social change, or achieve viral status.

  • New model

    Honours businesses revolutionising markets with elegant and disruptive business models.

  • Out of the garage

    Applauds companies that have expanded their reach globally, showcasing exceptional growth and international success.

  • Wildfire

    Celebrates companies that have rapidly and significantly impacted their marketplace, setting new standards for success.

  • Angel

    Honours visionary angel investors who've significantly contributed to early-stage startups, guiding them toward success.

  • C-Suite

    Recognises exceptional leadership qualities in high-ranking executives, showcasing their management and interpersonal excellence.

  • Down under

    Acknowledges international companies making a noteworthy entrance into the Australian market, enriching the local business ecosystem.

  • Ecosystem star

    Celebrates individuals who energise and nurture their communities, fostering engagement and advocacy.

  • Future builder

    Recognises the determination and resilience of founders who've embarked on the challenging journey of starting their own ventures.

  • Silent achiever

    Applauds the unsung heroes whose behind-the-scenes efforts have led to flawless project executions and exceeded expectations.

  • TopCoder

    Recognises developers for their outstanding technical skills, clean code, and collaborative spirit.

  • Venture cap

    Salutes venture capital firms with a track record of backing transformative businesses, contributing significantly to Australia's economic growth.

  • Champion

    Awarded to a single entry in all five Category Track, Champion is the top accolade from all categories in that track. To win the Champion, you need to be at Grand Prix level or score the most points.

  • Diamond

    Awarded to a best-in-show, Diamond is the highest accolade at Pause Awards. To win the Diamond, you need to be one of the five Champion winners.

  • Grand Prix

    Awarded to a single entry in a category, Grand Prix is the top accolade in that category. To win the Grand Prix, the entire Judging Board must unanimously agree that the entry deserves the accolade of being the best in that category.

Pause Awards launch on 15 May 2024!
00d : 00h : 00m : 00s
Signup now