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12 OCT 2025
*Nominations have now closed
Nominations are now open for The McKinnon Prize in Political Leadership 2025. The Prize recognises outstanding Australian political leaders in three categories each year:
McKinnon Political Leader of the Year - Federal, recognises elected representatives with over five years in elected office at a federal level.
McKinnon Political Leader of the Year - State/Territory, recognises elected representatives with over five years in elected office at a state/territory level.
McKinnon Emerging Political Leader of the Year, recognises federal, state, territorial or local government elected representatives, with fewer than five years in elected office.
The McKinnon Prize in Political Leadership is an independent and non-partisan award acknowledging elected leaders across all tiers of government who make a positive impact through leadership that embodies courage, collaboration, vision, and integrity. The Prize is a collaboration between the McKinnon and the University of Melbourne.
Through the Prize we seek to spark a national conversation about political leadership that challenges the prevailing cynical narrative in Australia. Over time we aim to have a positive influence on how Australians perceive good political leadership and the practice of politics in our country.
In early 2026 a Shortlisting Committee will meet to determine which of the eligible nominees will be shortlisted. Shortly afterwards, a Selection Panel comprising a diverse group of distinguished Australians drawn from various fields of endeavour will meet to select the recipients.
EXPLORE MORE FROM MCKINNON
Public Sector
The effectiveness of Australia’s public sector directly impacts our nation’s productivity and success. That is why we invest in developing measurable frameworks that drive impact and making research and resources accessible and useable.
Democracy
A resilient and vibrant democracy requires constant vigilance and renewal. With declining trust in institutions, global disruptions, and youth disengagement, supporting and strengthening our democratic foundations has become critical for Australia’s future.
Policy Innovation
Australia faces specific challenges that require fresh thinking and proven solutions. From education inequality to economic productivity, we need policy approaches that work - not just in theory, but in practice. That’s why we focus on finding and implementing the best policy innovation to accelerate progress and build trust.