selection panel

The McKinnon Prize's diverse judging panel proves consensus on what constitutes good political leadership is possible, even in polarised times.

selection panel and process

a diverse and independent judging panel

Assembling a unique judging panel drawn from across the political spectrum the McKinnon Prize proves that genuine consensus is actually possible in the modern era.

The McKinnon Prize is judged by a unique panel of prominent and accomplished Australians representing the breadth of the political spectrum.

Members of the McKinnon Prize Shortlisting Committee and Selection Panel are jointly appointed by McKinnon and the University of Melbourne.

Despite their widely divergent political views, our judges recognise leaders who work collaboratively to pursue their vision for Australia; leaders who build trust; leaders who inspire others; and leaders who contribute to quality policy and quality governance.

Selection Panel

McKinnon Prize 2024 Selection Panel

A group of nine people, dressed in business attire, stand in a row by a fountain, with trees and greenery in the background.

2024 McKinnon Prize Selection Panel

previous panel members

2023

2022

2021

2020

2019

2018

2023 selection panel

  • Dr Martin Parkinson AC PSM (Chair) - Chancellor of Macquarie University

  • Luke Achterstraat - CEO of the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA)

  • Peta Credlin AO - Political Commentator at Sky News Australia

  • Georgie Harman - Chief Executive Officer, Beyond Blue

  • Dr Alan Finkel AC - Chair of Stile Education, Chair of the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Quantum Biotechnology

  • Tanya Hosch - Executive General Manager of Inclusion and Social Policy, Australian Football League

  • Patricia Karvelas - Host of RN Breakfast, ABC Radio

  • Prof. Renee Leon PSM - Vice Chancellor and President, Charles Sturt University

  • Cathy McGowan AO - Chair, AgriFutures

  • The Hon. Arthur Sinodinos AO - Partner & Chair of Australia Practice, The Asia Group

  • Ashleigh Streeter-Jones - Founder & CEO of Raise Our Voice Australia (ROVA)

  • David Thodey AO - Chairman, Xero and Ramsay Healthcare

  • The Hon Jay Weatherill AO - Director of Public Affairs, Minderoo Foundation

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