New categories added to QSR Media Awards 2026
Nominations are now open for Australia's leading QSR awards programme.
The QSR Media Awards 2026 will return on 12 October 2026 at the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park as part of the QSR Media Conference & Awards 2026, powered by Red Bull.
The awards recognise the brands and teams setting the benchmark for innovation, customer experience, and business performance across Australia's quick service restaurant sector.
This year, the programme expands with the introduction of three new award categories designed to recognise emerging areas of growth and competition within the industry.
The Best Drive-Thru Initiative award will spotlight brands that are improving speed, convenience, and operational efficiency through drive-thru innovation.
The Best Loyalty Programme category will recognise operators using customer rewards and engagement strategies to drive retention, frequency, and long-term brand loyalty.
Meanwhile, the Beyond the Counter Award reflects a growing industry trend towards extending brand reach beyond traditional restaurant channels. The category will celebrate initiatives that successfully connect with consumers through retail products, partnerships, alternative formats, and other innovative growth strategies.
Nominations are now being accepted across all categories ahead of the awards ceremony in October. Nominations closes on 7 August 2026.
Submit your nominations now. For more information about the awards programme, please visit this link.
