The McKinnon Prize in Political Leadership is a collaboration between the Susan McKinnon Foundation and the University of Melbourne.

University of Melbourne Vice-Chancellor Glyn Davis will chair the inaugural selection panel, which will include former include Prime Ministers Julia Gillard and John Howard as well as distinguished business, political, education and sporting leaders.

The McKinnon Prize in Political Leadership will be offered in two categories: the McKinnon Political Leader of the Year, for politicians with at least five years in office, and the McKinnon Emerging Political Leader of the Year, for those with less than five years in office.

“The McKinnon Prize celebrates political leaders at all levels of government, recognising those who have driven positive change and sparking a national conversation about the role of politicians and our aspirations for leadership in Australia,” University of Melbourne Vice Chancellor Glyn Davis said. “We believe these inspirational leaders exist, and that now is the time to shine a light on what they are doing. This what the McKinnon Prize will achieve.”

“In our fast moving, ever-changing world, just staying across the media agenda of the day, attending community events and keeping the paperwork moving can feel incredibly taxing for today’s politicians. But while all that requires competence, it isn’t leadership,” former Prime Minister Julia Gillard said.

“In my view, the measure of a leader is the positive change that has only been made possible because of that person. It is about having the policy idea and pursuing it doggedly. Some practical compromises may be necessary along the way, but what emerges as a result of the political leader’s efforts changes our nation, a state or territory or local community for the better,” Ms Gillard said. “It is that kind of leadership that should be rewarded and recognised through the McKinnon Prize. I welcome the opportunity to serve on the judging panel.”

Former Prime Minister John Howard said: “This is a wonderful initiative to recognise, in a non-partisan fashion, the significance of political leadership in Australia. The University of Melbourne, especially its Vice Chancellor, Glyn Davis is to be congratulated for sponsoring the prize.  He has assembled a very diverse selection panel which will add to the prestige of the award.”

The inaugural selection panel is:

Susan McKinnon Foundation co-founder Grant Rule said: “Now, more than ever, we need to publicly recognise political leadership that shows vision and courage and has had a constructive impact for our country.”

The McKinnon Political Leader of the Year will recognise an established politician who has successfully tackled vital issues of public policy, overcome adversity and achieved real change for the public good.

They will be rewarded with a trophy of recognition, delivery of the keynote speech at The McKinnon Prize in Political Leadership Oration and the honour of being selected as an exemplar of outstanding political leadership by a distinguished group of Australians.

The McKinnon Emerging Political Leader of the Year will recognise a politician who has also demonstrated outstanding leadership on a significant public policy issue through courageous and collaborative action.

They will be rewarded with a trophy of recognition, delivery of a speech at The McKinnon Prize in Political Leadership Oration, the honour of being selected as an exemplar of outstanding political leadership by a distinguished group of Australians and a $20,000 financial prize to be used for professional development and growth.

Nominations are open until February 4 and the winner will be announced in March. For further information and nomination criteria visit www.mckinnonprize.org.au.