IHAC.
The In-House Agency Council (IHAC) has unveiled the winners of the 2026 IHAC Awards, announced at a virtual ceremony.
Treasury Wine Estates’ in-house agency Splash won four major titles, including In-House Agency of the Year, Best Integrated Campaign, Best Creative Work and Award for Agility.
The team’s 19 Crimes Halloween campaign was also recognised for its clear retail insight and measurable business impact.
“What really stood out this year was how blurred the lines have become between creative, media and technology,” said IHAC head Abby Blackmore.
“The best work wasn’t happening in silos, it was genuinely integrated from the start.”
“We’re seeing in-house teams step into a much broader role, combining disciplines in a way that’s faster, more connected and ultimately more effective.”
This year’s awards introduced three new categories, Best Use of AI, Best Use of Media and Leader of the Year.
Optus took out Best Use of AI for its OPTX platform, described by judges as a “ground-breaking application of AI."
One NZ’s ‘One Big Fan’ campaign, which won Best Use of Media, was praised for its authentic, fan-first strategy and seamless use of multiple touchpoints to keep audiences at the centre of the experience.
Bunnings’ partnership with TIACS, awarded Award for Good, stood out for its ability to drive meaningful cultural change at scale.
Roam Agency received the Spirit of IHAC for its contribution to the community.
“What we’re seeing now is a fundamental shift in the role of in-house agencies. They’re no longer just delivering creative, they’re leading across AI, media, data and strategy, and driving real business outcomes as a result,” said Blackmore.
“The most exciting, effective work in our industry is increasingly being built inside brands, and that has big implications for how teams are structured, how partners collaborate, and where innovation comes from next.
“Congratulations to all of this year’s winners, the standard of work on show reflects just how far the in-house model has come.”
Have something to say on this? Share your views in the comments section below. Or if you have a news story or tip-off, drop us a line at adnews@yaffa.com.au
Sign up to the AdNews newsletter, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter for breaking stories and campaigns throughout the day.