Entries open for AIBA 2026

Entries have opened for the Melbourne Royal Australian International Beer Awards (AIBA), the world’s largest annual beer competition evaluating both draught and packaged beer, along with cider and perry. 

A panel of Australia and international judges will assess entries from breweries and cideries worldwide with 14 major trophies available, including the coveted Champion Australian Beer and Champion International Beer, as well as 24 category trophies.

The Cider & Perry category, introduced in 2025, recognises draught and packaged products with awards including Best Cider or Perry and Champion Cider or Perry Producer.

Organisers say that the 2026 Awards align with the latest US Brewers Association Beer Style Guidelines, introducing eight new beer styles and updating existing classes.

The Design Awards also return with a new Tap Decal Design class and refined judging criteria.

Full details on all new and updated classes are available on the competition website.

Entries will close on Friday 13 March with judging from Tuesday 5 to Friday 8 May.

The 2026 Melbourne Royal Australian International Beer Awards Trophy Presentation Dinner will be held on Thursday 14 May and tickets are available now.

W: Details at melbourneroyal.com.au/beer