The Australian Political Book of the Year Award recognises the vital part political books play in better understanding Australian politics and public policy. Well researched, balanced and compelling political books that engage Australians are vital to the strength of our democracy.
The Award longlist, shortlist, and winner will be determined by the judges as having provided the most compelling contribution to the understanding of Australian political events and debates. The winning author or authors will receive $15,000 in prize money and each shortlisted author will receive $1,000.
Upcoming dates:
Submission open: 7 April
Submissions close: 3 July
Longlist announced: 1 September
Shortlist announced: 17 September
Winner announced: 28 October
The Australian Political Book of the Year Award is proud to introduce the University Essay Prize.
A new annual award recognising outstanding writing on politics and policy by undergraduate students across Australia. This Prize aims to foster the next generation of political thinkers, writers and commentators.
$1000 prize money for the Winner
$250 prize money for the Runner-up
2025 Australian Political Book of the Year Award winner announced!
Naku Dharuk: The Bark Petitions
Author: Clare Wright
2025 Australian Political Book of the Year Award Shortlist
The Chairman’s Lounge
Author: Joe Aston
Nuked
Author: Andrew Fowler
Mean Streak
Author: Rick Morton
Naku Dharuk: The Bark Petitions
Author: Clare Wright
2025 Australian Political Book of the Year Award Longlist
The Chairman’s Lounge
Author: Joe Aston
The Men Who Killed the News
Author: Eric Beecher
The Assassination of Neville Wran
Author: Milton Cockburn
Politics, Pride and Perversion
Author: Erik Eklund
Nuked
Author: Andrew Fowler
Let’s Tax Carbon
Author: Ross Garnaut
Losing It
Author: Jess Hill
Broken Heart
Author: Shireen Morris
Mean Streak
Author: Rick Morton
Naku Dharuk: The Bark Petitions
Author: Clare Wright
