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As the only award of its kind in Australia, the McKinnon Prize is an unapologetically positive initiative. By highlighting exceptional leadership the prize creates an important national conversation, reinforcing trust in our political leaders and inspiring the future leaders which is critical for a well functioning democracy.
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meet the federal nominees
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At the federal level, political leadership has the power to shape Australia’s future for generations to come.
The McKinnon Political Leader of the Year is not about political sides or ideology. It is about acknowledging federal leaders who are making a meaningful contribution to the country through impactful and principled leadership.
Congratulations to the 2025 nominees:
Senator Claire Chandler - Senator for Tasmania, Shadow Minister for Finance, Public Service, Government Services
Hon Jason Clare MP - Minister for Education, Member for Blaxland (NSW)
Senator James Paterson - Senator for Victoria, Shadow Minister for Defence
Senator David Pocock - Senator for ACT
Allegra Spender MP - Member for Wentworth (NSW)
Senator the Hon Murray Watt - Minister for the Environment & Water, Senator for Queensland
meet the state/territory nominees
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State and territory leaders play a vital role in shaping the everyday lives of Australians — from health and education to infrastructure, community safety and economic opportunity.
The McKinnon Prize for Political Leader of the Year celebrates leaders who deliver impact, demonstrate courage and build strong relationships to create positive change for their communities. Leaders guided by purpose, integrity and a commitment to strengthening the systems we all rely on.
Congratulations to the 2025 nominees:
Hon Roger Cook MLA - Premier of Western Australia, Minister for State Development; Trade and Investment; Economic Diversification; Member for Kwinana (WA)
Hon Ruth Forrest MLC - Member of the Legislative Council (Independent) for the electorate of Murchison (TAS), Chair of the Parliamentary Standing Committee of Public Accounts
Hon Peter Malinauskas MP - Premier of South Australia, Member for Croydon (SA)
Hon Chris Minns MP - Premier of NSW, Member for Kogarah (NSW)
Hon Jeremy Rockliff MP - Premier of Tasmania, Member for Braddon (TAS)
meet the emerging nominees
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Tomorrow’s political leadership starts with people willing to lead with courage, integrity and purpose today.
The McKinnon Prize for Political Leader of the Year recognises leaders showing exceptional promise through collaboration, vision and meaningful impact in public life. These are leaders who understand their responsibility to strengthen the democratic system Australians rely on.
Congratulations to the 2025 nominees:
The Hon. Dr. Andrew Charlton MP - Cabinet Secretary, Assistant Minister for Science, Technology, and the Digital Economy, MP for Parramatta (NSW)
Rachel Payne MLC - Member of the Legislative Council for South-Eastern Metropolitan Region (VIC)
Dan Repacholi MP - Special Envoy for Men's Health, MP for Hunter (NSW)
Jess Wilson MP - Victorian Opposition Leader, MP for Kew (VIC)
The McKinnon Prize is awarded each year from a pool of nominations through a rigorous and transparent selection process. The McKinnon Prize is judged by a unique panel of prominent and accomplished Australians representing the breadth of the political spectrum.
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