The Awards

Dorothea Mackellar
Sorting Book Prizes, 2009

Teacher Resources

We have compiled a list of teacher resources for download as well as an extensive list of links to further information for teachers and students about poetry writing, Read more >

The Awards

2013 poetry competition dates: open 1 March, close 30 June

The aim of the Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards is to capture the imagination of school students across Australia, inspiring them with a passion for poetry and a love of country. It is a unique national project, giving Australia’s youth a voice and an opportunity to strive for excellence in literature.

Categories and Prizes

Lower Primary (Years K – 3)

Winner: $300, trophy and prize pack
Runner-up: $150 and prize pack

Upper Primary (Years 4 – 6, Inc. Year 7 in QLD, WA, SA)

Winner: $400, trophy and prize pack
Runner-up: $200 and prize pack

Learning Assistance and Special Education Primary

Winner: $400, trophy and prize pack
Runner-up: $200 and prize pack
Entries to be submitted by the teacher, only students on IEP or STLA programs or with English as a second language are eligible to enter.

Junior Secondary (Years 7 – 9)

Winner: $500, trophy, UWS engraved IPod Touch and prize pack
Runner-up: $300 and prize pack

Senior Secondary (Years 10 – 12)

Winner: $500, trophy, UWS engraved IPad and prize pack
Runner-up: $300 and prize pack

Learning Assistance and Special Education Secondary

Winner: $500, trophy and prize pack
Runner-up: $300 and prize pack
Entries to be submitted by the teacher, only students on IEP or STLA programs or with English as a second language are eligible to enter.

Community Relations Commission (NSW) Award

Winner: $500, trophy and prize pack (separate presentation arrangements)

For the best poem highlighting the value of cultural diversity within Australian community:

Commenting on the cultural diversity of people (or their descendents) who have migrated to Australia; or
Exploring interactions and experiences of migrants (or their descendents) after their arrival in Australia; or
Reflecting on the life of migrants (or their descendents) in Australia in comparison to their life before coming to Australia.

Schools’ Award

For schools that demonstrate effort, achievement and a high standard of entries, awarded at the judges' discretion.

Winner Primary (the Sheelah Baxter award) : $1000, trophy and prize pack
Winner Secondary: $1000, trophy and prize pack

2013 prize packs also include a unique trophy and a wonderful collection of books from a number of publishing houses and local businesses .