The Department of Innovation, Industry, Science and Research administers the following prizes relating to science.
The Prime Minister's Prize for Science is an annual award to an individual, or jointly to up to four individuals, for an outstanding specific achievement in any area of science advancing human welfare or benefiting society. The prize comprises an embossed gold medallion, lapel pin and a tax-exempt grant of $300,000.
The Science Minister's Prize for Life Scientist of the Year is awarded for an outstanding achievement in science that advances, or has the potential to advance, human welfare or benefits society. This prize is awarded to an individual who is at an early stage in their career. The prize comprises a silver medallion and a tax-exempt grant of $50,000.
The Malcolm McIntosh Prize for Physical Scientist of the Year and the Science Minister's Prize for Life Scientist of the Year are designed to recognise achievements of scientists at an early stage of their research careers and are awarded annually to scientists who have completed their PhD within the past 10 years. Each prize comprises a solid silver medallion, lapel pin and a tax-exempt grant of $50,000.
The Prime Minister's Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Primary Schools and the Prime Minister's Prize for Excellence in Science Teaching in Secondary Schools recognise two teachers annually who have made an outstanding contribution to science education in Australia. Each prize comprises a solid silver medallion, lapel pin and a tax-exempt grant of $50,000.