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
Congratulations to the
2026 Australian Political Book of the Year Award Winner
The Alchemy of Leadership
Author: Paul Strangio
Judges comments: Paul Strangio takes the leadership of Prime Minister John Howard as his starting point and then proceeds to examine the leadership of the six prime ministers who have followed him: Kevin Rudd, Julia Gillard, Tony Abbott, Malcolm Turnbull, Scott Morrison and the incumbent, Anthony Albanese. Strangio puts the lives and careers of these leaders under the microscope: formative years, personalities and skills, guiding principles and leadership styles.… Read more
2026 Australian Political Book of the Year Award Shortlist
Gough Whitlam: The Vista of the New
Author: Troy Bramston
The Unfinished Revolution
Author: Virginia Haussegger
Earthquake
Author: Niki Savva
The Alchemy of Leadership
Author: Paul Strangio
2026 Australian Political Book of the Year Award Longlist
Gough Whitlam: The Vista of the New
Author: Troy Bramston
Angertainment
Author: Ed Coper
Getting Murdoched
Author: Andrew Dodd and Matthew Ricketson
The Unfinished Revolution
Author: Virginia Haussegger
Where It All Went Wrong
Author: Amy Remeikis
Earthquake
Author: Niki Savva
The Curious Diplomat
Author: Lachlan Strahan
The Alchemy of Leadership
Author: Paul Strangio
The Man Who Couldn’t Wait
Author: Debbie Whitmont
The Red House
Author: Kate Wild
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.
