This award celebrates outstanding contributions by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals or teams led by Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Peoples. The award recognises those who have significantly improved the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples or communities through innovative research or initiatives.

 

The award is also open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples who can show integration of Indigenous knowledge with contemporary STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine) practices, resulting in transformative impacts on economic, social, environmental, cultural or health outcomes.

 

Such projects may include, but are not limited to, advancements in sustainable practices, health interventions, educational programs, and technological innovations that draw on the rich heritage and wisdom of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

 

Eligibility

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals or teams of up to five (5) members led by Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Peoples are eligible to apply. 

 

Applications must include a letter of community endorsement from a recognised Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander organisation or Indigenous community leader, demonstrating to the impact of their work. 

 

The majority of the research and collaboration activities should have been undertaken in South Australia or in partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities connected to South Australia. 

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There is no fixed limitation on the length of time that has elapsed since the impact of the collaboration has been realised.

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Selection criteria

Criteria 1

Demonstrated contributions that have benefited South Australian people or community, or to integrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge with contemporary STEMM practices. Applicants should provide evidence of the scope, depth, and impact of their work, including recognition from peers, stakeholders, and community members. Testimonials or endorsements from those directly impacted are encouraged.

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Criteria 2

Evidence of leadership and collaboration within the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, underpinned by any of the below key principles to ensure integrity and impact. 

 

Key principles: 

 

• Community-Driven Leadership. Demonstrate leadership in research and innovation by building and guiding successful teams or projects that mentor Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. Prioritise initiatives that are shaped by, and endorsed by, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities—ensuring relevance, acceptability, and accountability.

• Inclusive and Cross-Cultural Collaboration. Lead effective collaborations across disciplines and/or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, ensuring Indigenous Peoples and organisations are actively involved in all stages of research—design, implementation, and translation.

• Respectful and Equitable Partnerships. Foster partnerships grounded in mutual trust, respect, and cultural competence. Work respectfully across cultures, recognising and upholding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge systems and the custodianship of that knowledge.

• Culturally Responsive Impact. Contribute to initiatives that shape the future of individuals or communities through culturally relevant communication, active listening, and learning. Ensure research delivers tangible, community-defined benefits, with attention to both outcomes and processes.

• Protection of Indigenous Intellectual Property. Acknowledge and protect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander intellectual property rights. Ensure transparent negotiation, culturally appropriate management of research materials, and fair benefit-sharing practices.

• Knowledge Sharing and Translation. Commit to the integration and sharing of knowledge throughout all phases of the research process. Promote knowledge translation that maximises impact on policy, practice, and community outcomes.

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Criteria 3

Additional evidence of the broader benefits of the applicant’s work, including environmental, social, health, cultural, or economic outcomes, particularly as they relate to South Australia.