A melanoma detection breakthrough and a free tax clinic supporting vulnerable Australians are among the university-led initiatives recognised in the 2025 Shaping Australia Awards, reinforcing the sector’s message that its impact extends well beyond lecture theatres.
More than 42,500 Australians cast votes alongside an eminent judging panel to determine six winners across the People’s Choice and Judges’ Pick categories — a reminder that public sentiment continues to back university-led research and community engagement when outcomes are tangible.
The awards, run by Universities Australia, are designed to showcase how teaching, research and service translate into measurable national benefit.
2025 Judges’ Pick Winners
- Problem Solver Award – The University of Queensland, Monash University and The University of Sydney’s ACEMID: revolutionising early detection and the fight against melanoma initiative is revolutionising melanoma screening through a globally unique research program, setting a new global benchmark for early melanoma and patient outcomes.
- Community Champion Award – Monash University’s Breaking barriers in communication: transforming access for Deaf and Deafblind Australians is tackling interpreter shortages, developing innovative learning tools and embedding inclusion into national systems.
- Future Builder Award – The University of Canberra’s Affiliated Schools Program is transforming teacher education and professional learning by connecting academics, educators, pre-service teachers and students to build capacity, strengthen professional practice and improve student learning outcomes.
The Judges’ Picks underscore the depth of collaboration across institutions, particularly in medical research, while highlighting inclusion and teacher workforce development as national priorities.
2025 People’s Choice Winners
- Problem Solver Award – The University of Wollongong’s Targeted hope: redefining treatment for pancreatic cancer initiative is developing biodegradable micro-implants that deliver chemotherapy and immunotherapy directly into tumours, targeting treatment for pancreatic cancer at the source and positioning Australia as a global leader in next-generation care.
- Community Champion Award – Charles Darwin University’s Free Tax Clinic is transforming access to justice and financial inclusion across the Northern Territory by providing free, trauma-informed, independent tax services to individuals, small businesses and charities unable to access professional advice.
- Future Builder Award – The Australian Catholic University’s Step Up into Teaching program is opening pathways to higher education for students from low socio-economic, First Nations and first-in-family backgrounds, building confidence while removing traditional ATAR barriers.
The People’s Choice results highlight the breadth of university contribution, from cancer treatment innovation to practical community support and widening participation in education.
Universities on the Front Foot
Ms Lisa Paul AO PSM, chair of the judging panel, praised the winners for their “inspiring and impactful initiatives that are helping shape Australia’s future.”
“The judging panel had the privilege of learning about the exceptional work being delivered by universities and the life-changing contributions they make every day,” Ms Paul said.
“This impact reaches far beyond campus gates – universities don’t just serve students and staff, they deliver for all Australians, and the nation is stronger for it.”
Luke Sheehy, Chief Executive Officer of Universities Australia, said the projects demonstrate the sector’s real-world value.
“These projects are transforming lives, and these awards celebrate the people driving change and making a real difference right across Australia,” Mr Sheehy said.
“When universities thrive, Australia benefits through better health, stronger communities and greater opportunity. These winners show exactly why universities matter to the nation.”
In a policy environment where the role and funding of universities remain under constant scrutiny, the Shaping Australia Awards serve as a counterpoint — spotlighting outcomes that resonate beyond higher education policy circles.
A full description of all six winning projects is available at shapingaustraliaawards.com.au, with the 2026 awards set to open later this year.
