The McKinnon Prize is awarded each year from a pool of nominations through a rigorous and transparent two-tier selection process.

By 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 the Susan McKinnon Foundation and the University of Melbourne. Each body functions as custodian of the McKinnon Prize and is responsible for shortlisting or selecting the overall recipients of the McKinnon Prize (as relevant).

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.

McKinnon Prize Selection Panels

2023

Dr Martin Parkinson AC PSM (Chair)

Chancellor of Macquarie University
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Luke Achterstraat

CEO of the Council of Small Business Organisations Australia (COSBOA)
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Peta Credlin AO

Political Commentator at Sky News Australia
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Dr Alan Finkel AC

Chair of Stile Education, Chair of the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Quantum Biotechnology
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Georgie Harman

Chief Executive Officer, Beyond Blue
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Tanya Hosch

Executive General Manager of Inclusion and Social Policy, Australian Football League
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Patricia Karvelas

Host of RN Breakfast, ABC Radio
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Prof. Renee Leon PSM

Vice Chancellor and President, Charles Sturt University
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Cathy McGowan AO

Chair, AgriFutures
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The Hon. Arthur Sinodinos AO

Partner & Chair of Australia Practice, The Asia Group
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Ashleigh Streeter-Jones

Founder & CEO of Raise Our Voice Australia (ROVA)
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David Thodey AO

Chairman, Xero and Ramsay Healthcare
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The Hon Jay Weatherill AO

Director of Public Affairs, Minderoo Foundation
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2022
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2019
2018
2017