Excellence in Law Awards Gala
Join us for the 2026 QLS Excellence in Law Awards Gala, an evening dedicated to recognising and celebrating the outstanding achievements of Queensland’s legal profession.
2026 Key dates
Tuesday 14 April - Nominations open
Friday 5 June - Nominations close (EXTENDED)
Monday 22 June - Gala tickets on sale
Monday 13 July - Finalists announced
Friday 14 August - Gala ticket registrations close (unless sold out prior)
Saturday 22 August – Winners announced at the Excellence in Law Awards Gala
Gala at The Star Brisbane
This year’s Gala promises an elevated and unforgettable experience. Delight in the breathtaking views of the Brisbane River, the stunning interiors and world-class hospitality of The Star Brisbane. Celebrate alongside colleagues, honour the accomplishments of your peers, and be inspired by the cohort of exceptional finalists. A highlight of the legal calendar, this prestigious evening is not to be missed.
Your ticket to Gala unlocks:
- The QLS Excellence in Law Awards ceremony
- A sumptuous three-course meal
- Unlimited premium wine, champagne and beer
- A dancefloor to round out the night
- An unmissable opportunity to connect with colleagues and peers
Ticket prices start from $279. Don't miss out, last year's event sold out in a matter of weeks!
QLS Excellence in Law Awards
Our awards shine a light on the exemplary efforts of Queensland’s legal professionals—highlighting good law, good lawyers, for the public good. They provide the opportunity for outstanding solicitors, teams and organisations to showcase their ingenuity and contribution to both the legal profession and the broader community.
2026 Award Categories
Detailed below are the 2026 award categories. Nominations have now closed.
- Access to Justice Award
- Agnes McWhinney Award
- Emerging Leader Award
- First Nations Student Award
- Graduate Lawyer of the Year
- In-house Counsel of the Year
- Pride in Law Award
- Pro Bono Team of the Year
- Queensland Solicitor of the Year (Sole Practitioner)
- Queensland Solicitor of the Year (Small Firm: 2-19 PCs)
- Queensland Solicitor of the Year (Large Firm: 20+ PCs)
- Regional Practitioner of the Year Award
Past Winners
Hear from Tim Longwill, Pro Bono Partner at McCullough Robertson, our 2025 winners of the Pro Bono Team of the Year award.
Our 2026 Partners
With thanks to our 2026 partners. Without them, the Awards program would not be possible.
Award Partners
Event Partner
Interested in becoming a 2026 Award Partner?
Our awards program is one of our most popular partnership opportunities each year. These spaces go quickly and there are limited remaining. If you are interested, please email our Partnerships and Growth team today!