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

2024

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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The Hon John Anderson AC FTSE

Former Deputy Prime Minister of Australia
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Peta Credlin AO

Political Commentator at Sky News Australia
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Emeritus Professor Geoff Gallop AC FASS

Former Premier of Western Australia
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Patricia Karvelas

Host of RN Breakfast, ABC Radio
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Cathy McGowan AO

Chair, AgriFutures
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Travers McLeod

Executive Director of the Brotherhood of St Laurence
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Dr Lois Peeler AM

Elder in Residence, Worawa Aboriginal College and NAIDOC Female Elder of the Year 2022
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2023
2022
2021
2020
2019
2018
2017