Awards & Nominations Policy

1. Purpose

This policy explains how awards and nominations are determined and presented by the Festival. It exists to ensure fairness, transparency, and integrity while protecting the Festival’s independence and decision-making processes.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• All entrants and submitted works
• Judges, jurors, and evaluators
• Festival staff involved in awards administration

It applies to all competitive awards, nominations, and official recognitions offered by the Festival.

3. Award Categories

• Award categories may vary between Festival editions.
• Categories may be added, amended, or removed at the Festival’s discretion.
• The Festival is not required to present an award in every category.
• Some recognitions may be non-competitive.

Category availability does not guarantee an award will be issued.

4. Eligibility for Awards

To be eligible for awards or nominations:

• A submission must comply with all Festival policies
• All rights and permissions must be properly held
• The submission must not present legal, ethical, or reputational risk

The Festival reserves the right to declare any submission ineligible.

5. Nomination Process

• Nominations are determined through the Festival’s authorised judging process.
• Only appointed judges may participate in nominations.
• Nominations are announced through official Festival channels.
• Nomination decisions are final and may not be appealed.

6. Determination of Winners

• Winners are selected through the Festival’s judging and evaluation procedures.
• Jury decisions are final and binding.
• The Festival is not required to provide individual feedback.
• No correspondence will be entered into regarding award outcomes.

7. Conflicts of Interest

Individuals involved in nominations or awards must not participate where a conflict exists, including:

• Creative or financial involvement in a submission
• Personal relationships with contributors
• Any situation that could compromise impartiality

Conflicts must be declared immediately.

8. Confidentiality

All individuals involved must maintain confidentiality regarding:

• Shortlists or nomination progress
• Jury discussions
• Winners prior to public announcement

Unauthorised disclosure may result in removal from duties.

9. Award Presentation

• Awards may be presented in person, online, or through alternative formats.
• Attendance is not guaranteed or required to receive recognition.
• Physical awards may not be issued for all categories.

The Festival may change presentation formats at any time.

10. Shipping & Physical Awards

Where physical awards are offered:

• The Festival is not responsible for shipping unless explicitly stated
• Shipping costs may be charged
• The Festival is not liable for loss or damage once dispatched

Replacement awards may be offered at cost.

11. Revocation of Awards

The Festival reserves the right to revoke nominations or awards where:

• False or misleading information is discovered
• Festival policies are breached
• Serious misconduct occurs
• Legal or reputational risks arise

Such decisions are final.

12. Use of Laurels & Recognition

Use of Festival laurels, titles, or recognition is governed by the Branding, Laurels & Marketing Usage Policy.

Unauthorised or misleading use may result in action.

13. Amendments

This policy may be updated at any time.

14. Acceptance

Participation in the Festival constitutes acceptance of this Awards & Nominations Policy.