Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science

Australia’s most prestigious awards for achievements in scientific research, research-based innovation and science teaching.
REVEALING RECIPIENTS TONIGHT

Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science 2024

Follow us on Facebook, X/TwitterLinkedIn and #PMPrizes to find out who will receive a prize. We’ll announce the 2024 recipients live on socials and invite you to engage with our posts to congratulate the recipients. We’re publishing details about all the recipients here after the announcements.

About the prizes

The Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science acknowledge:

  • scientists and innovators across diverse disciplines and career stages

  • primary and secondary school teachers who inspire students to engage in science, technology and mathematics.

The Australian Government Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science 2024 logo and medallion. Celebrating 25 years

Key dates

Celebrating 25 years

Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science 2023

Learn about the scientists, innovators and educators recognised in the 2023 Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science.

Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science 2022

Learn more about the 2022 prize recipients

Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science 2021

The Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science recognise the contributions our scientists, innovators and science teachers make to Australia's scientific and commercialisation capabilities.

Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science 2020

The Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science recognise the contributions our scientists, innovators and science teachers make to Australia's scientific and commercialisation capabilities. See PM Prizes awarded in 2020.

Prime Minister's Prizes for Science 2015 to 2019

Find past recipients on the Australian Government's website archive.

Prime Minister's Prizes for Science 2000 to 2014

Find past recipients on the Australian Government's website archive.

Prize categories

There are 7 prize categories.

Science prizes

Prime Minister’s Prize for Science

For a significant advancement of knowledge through science. This prize can be awarded to an individual or a team of up to 4 individuals. Awards $250,000.

Prime Minister’s Prize for Innovation

For the innovative translation of scientific knowledge into a commercially available product, service or process with economic, social or environmental benefits. This prize can be awarded to an individual or a team of up to 4 individuals. Awards $250,000.

Frank Fenner Prize for Life Scientist of the Year

For an exceptional achievement in life science that benefits, or has the potential to benefit, human welfare or society by early to mid-career scientists. Recognises achievements within 10 years (full time or full time equivalent) of completing relevant studies. Awards $50,000.

Malcolm McIntosh Prize for Physical Scientist of the Year

For an exceptional achievement in physical science that benefits, or has the potential to benefit, human welfare or society by early to mid-career scientists. Recognises achievements within 10 years (full time or full time equivalent) of completing relevant studies. Awards $50,000.

Prize for New Innovators

For an early achievement towards partially or fully commercialising or translating scientific research with economic, social, or environmental benefits. Recognises achievements within 10 years (full time or full time equivalent) of completing relevant studies. Awards $50,000.

Science teaching prizes

Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Primary Schools

For excellence in primary school teaching in any area of science that is part of the teacher’s state or territory science, technology or mathematics syllabus. Awards $50,000.

Prime Minister’s Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Secondary Schools

Excellence in secondary school teaching in any area of science that is part of the teacher’s state or territory science, technology or mathematics syllabus. Awards $50,000.

Latest news

Teacher watching student use microscope in classroom

We’re celebrating 25 years of the Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science

This year, the prizes celebrate 25 years of recognising achievements in science, innovation and science teaching. Follow us on Facebook, X/Twitter, LinkedIn and #PMPrizes for the latest…
Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science 2023 logo with medallion and Australian Government crest. Decorative background with sparkles.

We’re announcing the 2024 Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science on 8 October

We will recognise the demonstrated achievements of Australian scientists, research-based innovators and science teachers in science and technology fields. Follow us on Facebook, X,…

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