The Prime Minister's Prizes for Science are one of the nation's most prestigious and highly regarded awards for excellence in science and science teaching.
A key element of the Government's national initiative, the awards aim to inspire a sense of national pride by the public recognition and rewards of the achievements of Australians in the sciences.
Five prizes are awarded annually to Australian citizens or permanent residents including:
- The $300,000 Prime Minister's Prize for Science
- The $50,000 Science Minister's Prize for Life Scientist of the Year
- The $50,000 Malcolm McIntosh's Prize for Physical Scientist of the Year
- The $50,000 Prime Minister's Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Primary Schools
- The $50,000 Prime Minister's Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Secondary Schools
The prizes are a tribute to the contributions that Australian Scientists have made to Australia and international economic and social wellbeing as well as the contributions science educators have made by inspiring and encouraging in interest in science.