Each year, recipients of the McKinnon Prize for Political Leader of the Year and Emerging Political Leader of the Year are determined by a panel of esteemed Australians. Recipients are recognised at an annual awards event and celebrated for the positive impact of their leadership for Australia.

2021

Recipients

The Hon Tony Smith MP

McKinnon Political Leader of the Year 2021

The Hon Tony Smith MP was awarded the 2021 McKinnon Prize in Political Leadership for his work in consistently and impactfully upholding parliamentary standards and ensuring bipartisan accountability within the parliament.

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Councillor Teresa Harding

McKinnon Emerging Political Leader of the Year 2021

Councillor Teresa Harding was named the 2021 McKinnon Emerging Political Leader of the Year for her work in improving transparency and public accountability in political institutions.

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Watch the 2021 recipients of the McKinnon Prize in Political Leadership discuss their work and the role of political leaders.

Selection Panel

The Hon Julia Gillard AC

Former Prime Minister of Australia
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The Hon Mike Baird AO

Former Premier of New South Wales
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Dennis Richardson AC

Former Diplomat and Public Servant (Chair)
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Robin Bishop

Founding Partner, BGH Capital
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Professor Tom Calma AO, FAA

Chancellor, University of Canberra
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Peta Credlin AO

Journalist
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Caitlin Figueiredo

Co-Chair of the Australian Youth Affairs Coalition
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Ronni Kahn AO

Founder, OzHarvest
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Catherine Livingstone AO, FAA, FTSE

Chair of Commonwealth Bank
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Katherine McConnell

Founder and CEO of Brighte
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Annika Smethurst

Journalist
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Dr Martin Parkinson AC, PSM

Chancellor, Macquarie University
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Professor Michael Wesley

Deputy Vice-Chancellor, International, the University of Melbourne
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