The James Martin Policy Pitch invites higher degree by research (HDR) students from APPI partner universities to propose innovative policy solutions to major challenges facing Australia.
APPI encourages new generations of university researchers to contribute to public debate on topical issues. The essay prize aims to showcase fresh approaches to complex policy challenges facing Australian communities and policymakers.
The competition provides an opportunity for emerging researchers to translate academic insight into practical policy ideas for government.
Submissions to the prize should outline a policy challenge facing Australia and explore potential solutions available for government action. Pitches should be written in an op-ed style suitable for publication on online platforms such as The Policymaker.
The winning entry will receive editorial support, be published by APPI on The Policymaker, and receive a $1000 bursary.
Pitches should:
- Clearly identify and contextualise a pressing policy challenge affecting Australia, explaining its significance for communities, government, and public policy.
- Draw on relevant research, evidence, or data to demonstrate an informed understanding of the issue.
- Present practical and achievable policy options for action by state and/or Commonwealth governments.
- Communicate ideas in a clear, persuasive and accessible style suitable for a broad policy audience.
How to enter
Submit your application through the form at the bottom of this page.
Applications open: Monday 16 March 2026
Applications close: 5pm (AEST) on Friday 8 May 2026
Applications must be original (i.e., must not reproduce research published elsewhere). The use of AI tools (in research informing the submission, composition or editing) must be clearly disclosed.
Applicants will be notified of outcomes via email in late August.
Selection criteria and process
- The pitch outlines a compelling and impactful approach to a domestic government challenge or one that government should be tackling in new ways.
- It communicates clear, concise and pragmatic policy opportunities for the state and/or Commonwealth government(s), backed by research.
- The submission is a policy pitch of no more than 1500 words, outlining the challenge and possible solutions, written in op-ed style for publication.
- It includes proper referencing and citations, including acknowledgement of any AI tools used.
Applications will be assessed against the selection criteria by an internal panel, which will shortlist applications for further assessment.
The Institute’s Research Advisory Group, comprised of academics, policymakers, and independent panellists, will consider shortlisted submissions.
Eligibility
Students must be currently enrolled in a higher degree by research (HDR) program at an APPI partner university, and must still be enrolled by the end of August 2026:
- University of Sydney
- Western Sydney University
- University of Technology Sydney
- University of New South Wales
- Charles Sturt University
- University of Wollongong
- University of Melbourne
- Monash University
The winning entry
The winning submission will:
- receive a $1000 bursary
- receive editorial support from APPI
- be published on APPI’s The Policymaker
For further information, contact thepolicymaker@appi.org.au.
