The Shout Magazine (New Zealand)

Entries open for the 2025 Australian International Beer Awards

Entries are now officially open for the Melbourne Royal Australian International Beer Awards (AIBA), the world’s largest annual beer competition evaluating both draught and packaged beer.

This year’s Awards bring new updates, including a new Cider and Perry category, four additional trophies, and three new beer classes. 

Melbourne Royal invites breweries and cideries from around the globe to showcase their craft, compete on an international stage and receive invaluable feedback from an esteemed panel of Australian and international judges. 

This year, participants will vie for 14 major trophies – including the coveted Champion Australian Beer and Champion International Beer trophies – and 24 category trophies. 

Trophies for Best Cider or Perry and Champion Cider or Perry Producer will provide cideries with a unique platform to showcase their innovation and quality in both draught and packaged formats. 

“The Melbourne Royal Australian International Beer Awards continue to champion the beer industry by recognising excellence, supporting brewers and cider makers, and celebrating their craft,” says Brad Jenkins, Melbourne Royal CEO. 

“This year’s additions, including Cider and Perry categories and trophies for independent breweries, along with the addition of new Classes, reflect our dedication to promoting innovation and growth in the industry.” 

Reflecting evolving industry trends, three new beer classes have also been introduced: Australian-Style Low Carbohydrate Lager, Italian-Style Pilsner, and Red India Pale Ale.

Updates to European beer style definitions and a revised minimum ABV for India Pale Ale classes (from 6.3% to 5.8%) ensure the Awards remain at the forefront of brewing innovation. 

In an effort to streamline the entry process, Melbourne Royal has engaged with cold-chain logistics provider Chill.

The company is offering interstate entrants an exclusive rate card for local pick-up and consolidated shipping from interstate depot locations to the Awards in Melbourne, taking the stress out of organising their own freight. 

Key dates:

Entries Close: Friday 7 March
International Delivery to Chill Melbourne: Monday 31 March – Thursday 17 April
Delivery to Interstate Consolidation Points: Monday 14 – Wednesday 16 April
Judging: Tuesday 6 May – Friday 9 May 
Awards Presentation: Thursday 15 May 

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