Lake Macquarie businesses are set to shine once again as entries open for the 2025 Lake Macquarie Business Excellence Awards.

Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz said the awards help highlight the resilience, commitment and passion of businesses and their employees across the city.

“We’re home to almost 15,000 businesses, many of which are small family enterprises that toil day-to-day without much fanfare or recognition,” he said.

“The Lake Macquarie Business Excellence Awards draw attention to the excellent work they do and the contribution they make to our community and economy.

“History shows the awards also help raise the profile of businesses selected as finalists and winners, providing a much-needed boost during challenging times.”

Latest economic data shows business activity remains strong in the city despite cost-of-living pressures, with total output rising by $1.7 billion to $31.8 billion in 2024.

Unemployment dropped to just 2.7 per cent and the total value of wages and salaries in the LGA increased to almost $7.3 billion.

This year’s awards feature 13 categories, including Outstanding Employee, Excellence in Innovation, Excellence in Small Business, Outstanding Visitor Experience, Employer of Choice, Excellence in Large Business, Business of the Year, and the People’s Choice award.

Entries are open until 5pm on Monday, 19 May.

Finalists will be announced on 7 July, with public voting for the Origin Energy People’s Choice award opening on the same day.

Winners will be announced at a gala evening on 8 August.

This year’s award sponsors include Dantia, Origin Energy, Newcastle Herald, Charlestown Square by the GPT Group, University of Newcastle, ATUNE Health Centres, Lake Mac Holiday Parks and Ramsay Health Care.

Visit Lake Macquarie City Council website to enter.

IMAGE | Winners from the 2024 Lake Macquarie Business Excellence Awards.