Frequently Asked Questions

 

If you have any other queries, please don't hesitate to contact Commerce Ballarat on 5333 3233.

 

View Sample Application (note: 2024 application will vary)

 

Do I have to be a member of Commerce Ballarat to nominate/enter?

No, definitely not.

Why should I enter?

You will find the process of completing the application is beneficial for you, your staff and your business and if you are to become a finalist or winner the exposure is priceless.

Do I have to be a member of Commerce Ballarat to be a finalist or winner?

No, definitely not.

Does my business have to be located in the Ballarat region to enter?

Yes, the awards are open to all businesses that are based and operating in the Ballarat region, excluding the Growers & Producers Peoples Choice Award, entries in this category are extended to all businesses in the RDA Grampians region, which includes the LGAs of Ararat, Ballarat, Golden Plains, Hepburn, Hindmarsh, Horsham, Moorabool, Northern Grampians, Pyrenees, West Wimmera and Yarriambiack.

How do I enter the Growers and Producers Peoples Choice Award?

This category is seperate from the application process. Nominations open for this category Wednesday 19 June 2024 with voting to follow. Follow Commerce Ballarat on social media to stay up to date #BallBEA2024

When will I receive acceptance of my nomination?  

A letter and application booklet will be forwarded to all nominees after April 10. 

I have been nominated in 5 categories; how many can I enter?  

You, may enter two categories.

I have been nominated in one category; can I enter more?

Yes you may enter up to two categories.

What if the categories I have been nominated in are not suitable for my business?

You may choose to enter 2 appropriate categories of your choice whether or not you were nominated in it.

Who makes up the judging panel?  

Our judging panel consists of a selection of independent business people. Commerce Ballarat staff and Board members do not participate in the judging process.

Should I attend a workshop prior to completing my entry?  

Yes, you will find our workshops very informative. To book a place in an application information session or application mentoring session, email rsvp@commerceballarat.com.au or phone 5333 3233. Registrations for both session are essential. 

How many pages are allowed per application?

1 page - Signed Entry Form
1 page - Business Summary
5 pages - General and category-specific questions
4 pages - Supplementary Material
Total 11 Pages

Should I bind my application?

No, definitely not (Presentation will not be judged)

Will you receive feedback on your application?

You will receive a scoresheet that will benchmark you against the other applicants in your category and the finalists.

Can I have contact with the judges as an applicant?

No, not unless you become a finalist. Our judges dedicate many voluntary hours to this process and with the quantity of applications it is not possible for them to give personal feedback.

 

Still haven't got the answer? Give us a call on 03 5333 3233

To book a place in an application information session or application mentoring session, email rsvp@commerceballarat.com.au or phone 5333 3233. Registrations for both sessions are essential.