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.

The McKinnon Prize Shortlisting Committee and Selection Panel for 2023 has just been announced.

Nominations  for the McKinnon Prize 2023 are now open.

McKinnon Prize Selection Panels

2022

Catherine Livingstone AO FAA FTSE (Chair)

Chancellor of University of Technology Sydney
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The Hon John Brumby AO

Former Premier of Victoria
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Professor Tom Calma AO

Chancellor of University of Canberra
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Peta Credlin AO

Political Commentator at Sky News Australia
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Caitlin Figueiredo

Co-Chair of the Australian Youth Affairs Coalition
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Dr Alan Finkel AC

Former Chief Scientist of Australia
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The Hon Kelly O’Dwyer

former Cabinet Minister and member of the Australian Parliament
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Dr Martin Parkinson AC PSM

Chancellor of Macquarie University
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Annika Smethurst

State Political Editor at The Age
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Doug Taylor

CEO of The Smith Family
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Dr Julie Wells

Vice-President (Strategy and Culture) at The University of Melbourne
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2021
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2019
2018
2017