The GOVEAs recognise and celebrate the outstanding achievements of our state's exporters in international trade and help them strengthen their future success. In today’s evolving trade landscape, a robust export strategy is more important than ever.

By participating in the GOVEA Awards, your company can benefit by:

• Refining your export strategy: The GOVEA application process encourages a deep dive into your export activities and ambitions, helping you build a smarter, more resilient strategy to navigate today’s global challenges.
• Receiving expert guidance to build your success: Receive tailored, one-on-one support from international business growth strategist Collins Rex to develop a compelling application and sharpen your export plans.
• Boosting your international credibility: A GOVEA win enhances your brand reputation and opens doors in global markets, helping to strengthen funding applications, investor interest, and customer trust.
• Gaining national and International recognition: All GOVEA winners are automatically entered into the Australian Export Awards, offering your business the chance to shine on the national and international stage.
• Celebrating team success: Recognition through the GOVEAs boosts staff morale, celebrating the collective effort that drives your global achievements.

What's new for 2025?

For the first time in the GOVEA Awards' 46-year history, a dedicated category will recognise the achievements of Victoria’s First Nations exporters — celebrating the diversity and strength of our export community.

Applications for the GOVEA Awards close on Friday 13 June 2025.

For outstanding international success by a First Nations business.  This includes First Nations businesses operating in any industry, who have been exporting for 3 years or more.

For outstanding international success in the field of education and training. This includes higher education, vocational education and training, transnational education, online learning, curriculum development and EdTech.

For outstanding international success in the fields of health, medical or wellbeing. This includes biotechnology, biosecurity, medical technology, digital health, e‑health, aged care, disability, complementary health, pharmaceuticals and related services.

For outstanding international success in the resources and energy sectors.This includes businesses involved in the production, processing or value adding of extractive resources or the provision of energy or resources related equipment, services or technology.

For outstanding international success in manufacturing, engineering or advanced materials development. This includes advanced manufacturing and materials technologies, engineering, design and production.

For outstanding international success in the field of professional services. This includes legal, accounting, administration and support services, business management and consultancy, marketing services, franchising and licensing, engineering, financial and insurance, market research, translation services and tourism and business events.

For outstanding international success by a regional business. This includes businesses whose head office or majority of operations are based in a non‑metropolitan location.

For outstanding international success by a small business. This includes businesses with total annual turnover not exceeding A$10 million.

For outstanding international success in the Green Economy. This includes the provision of green economy technology or capabilities such as environmental solutions, clean energy, sustainable materials, renewables, waste and water management, green building, smart cities or businesses committed to sustainable business practices.

Technologies

For outstanding international success in the field of information technology, digital technologies, software, hardware or digital services. This includes solutions utilising cloud‑based platforms, artificial intelligence, machine learning, Internet of Things, augmented reality, autonomous systems, robotics, quantum, virtual reality, data collaboration and management tools, fintech, cyber security and/or blockchain with civilian, defence, space and/ or other industry applications.

For outstanding success by a Victorian woman or women involved in international business.

The Victorian Exporter of the Year Award recipient will be selected by the State judge from the winners of the thirteen national categories.