The Australian Government is now operating in line with Caretaker Conventions, pending the outcome of the 2025 federal election.
The Prime Minister’s Prizes for Science acknowledge:
scientists and innovators across diverse disciplines and career stages
contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge systems to science, our nation and humanity
primary and secondary school teachers who inspire students to engage in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Nominations for the 2025 science and science teaching prizes closed on 17 December 2024.
Nominations closed on 20 March 2025.
There are 8 prize categories.
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.
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.
For the practice and preservation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge systems occurring across Australia. This prize can be awarded to an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander individual, a team or representatives of a community groups. Awards $250,000.
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.
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.
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.
For excellence in primary school teaching in any area of science that is part of the teacher’s state or territory science, technology, engineering or mathematics syllabus. Awards $250,000.
Excellence in secondary school teaching in any area of science that is part of the teacher’s state or territory science, technology, engineering or mathematics syllabus. Awards $250,000.
