Judging is a two-step process with an initial judging by a panel of three judges who select three finalists in each category. This is with the exception of photography, which is judged initially by a panel of five judges (including a representative each from Fairfax and News Ltd).
A panel from the Walkley Advisory board then selects the winner in each category.

The Board also selects the winner of the Gold Walkley Award from the category winners and may offer an award for journalistic leadership.