The Gippsland Business Awards have existed in their current format since 1998. The awards began in 1994 with New Zealand Insurance as the major sponsor. The Gippsland Business Awards were revived in 1998 by funding through the Gippsland Area Consultative Committee with sponsorship and in kind support provided by WIN Television, Victorian Employer’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI) and Australian Chamber of Manufacturers (ACM) to promote and encourage excellence in and recognition for Gippsland businesses.

Federation Health was the major sponsor from 2000 to 2005. Telstra Country Wide Gippsland took over naming rights sponsorship in 2006 with the annual event becoming the Telstra Gippsland Business Awards. In 2007 to 2009 Bendigo Bank will be the Naming Right Sponsor of the Gippsland Business Awards.

Businesses can either be nominated, or self nominate. The nominated businesses are judged by category.The Gippsland Business Awards is a non-profit event, with a Committee of Management made up of a cross representation of key stakeholders.

Timetable for 2009 Awards