Find your question.
Explore each topic and its questions, save your choice, and download the official topics PDF.
REGISTRATION OPENS20 October 2026
12:00 am · AEST
ESSAY CUT-OFF28 February 2027
11:59 pm · NSW/VIC time (AEDT)
YOUR REGISTRATIONA number of your own.
You’ll be allocated a unique JBA number when you complete your registration.
YOUR YEAR / 2027
Make your
next move.
From an idea on the page to a place on the stage. Every step has a purpose.
April is the expected finalist selection period. The June date and programme are provisional; the award team will confirm arrangements.
- 20 October 202612:00 am · AEST
Registration opens.
Complete your registration and create your account. You’ll be allocated a unique JBA registration number and get access to your entrant portal.
Register for the award - Your idea takes shape
Write your essay.
Log in to explore the topics and questions, read the rules, and choose your direction. Research, write and refine your thinking. The award team is there when you need help.
- Before the cut-off
Submit your essay.
Upload your essay in your portal, check the preview and select Submit essay. You’ll see confirmation when your entry has been submitted.
- 28 February 202711:59 pm · NSW/VIC time (AEDT)
Essays close.
Your essay must be submitted before the cut-off. Leave time to review your file and complete your submission.
- After entries close
Your essay meets the panel.
Essays are allocated to retail executives and judges for review. Your ideas are now in the hands of people who understand the industry.
- The judging process
Read. Marked. Ranked.
The judging panel reviews and scores the essays, then ranks the entries to select the finalists.
- April 2027Expected timing
Finalists selected.
Six entrants are selected to take their ideas to the next stage. The team contacts the finalists with presentation details and next steps.
- Thursday 17 June 20278:00 am · AEST · Provisional
Finalists take the stage.
The finalists present their ideas to the judging panel and answer questions. A chance to bring their perspective to life.
- Thursday 17 June 20276:00 pm · AEST · Provisional
The award gala begins.
The industry comes together to celebrate bold thinking, emerging talent and the people behind the award.
Explore the gala - Thursday 17 June 202710:00 pm · AEST · Provisional
One name. A new chapter.
The 2027 Joe Berry Award winner is announced. The next name in the award’s story could be yours.
Your ideas. Your workspace.
Register to unlock the entry kit in your personal portal. It brings your topics, rules, submission and support together in one place.
For registered entrantsKnow what’s required.
Read the current rules, follow the cover-page guidance and prepare your essay with confidence.
Keep moving forward.
Manage your submission and ask the award team for help from your entrant workspace.
Before you begin.
01Where do I find the essay topics and rules?
They’re available in your portal after you complete your registration and sign in. Your registration confirmation email also includes the topics PDF. Start your registration.
02When do I receive my registration number?
A unique JBA number is allocated when you complete your registration. You’ll find it in your confirmation email and your portal.
03Does submitting my essay make me a finalist?
Submitting your essay puts you in the running. The judges review and score the entries before six finalists are selected.
04How do I get help?
Ask the team through portal support, or email entries@joeberryaward.com.au. Include your JBA number if you’ve already registered.
A LITTLE HELP GOES A LONG WAY
Keep your idea moving.
Ask the team through your portal or email entries@joeberryaward.com.au.