At a time when hatred and division seem increasingly pervasive, empathy and understanding have never been more essential. The Sydney Prize recognizes writers who explore humanistic values with particular focus on issues affecting marginalised communities. Applicants must submit an essay addressing a nominated question that displays intellectual integrity, originality and the ability to approach challenging topics in new and compelling ways – funded through Emilie Ann Consett Stephen’s bequest.

The Sydney Prize is one of the University of Sydney’s prestigious awards, honoring excellent undergraduate writing that meets Sir Sidney Cox’s high standards as evidenced in his teaching methods and book “Indirections for those Who Wish to Write”. It recognizes outstanding undergraduate writers – such as those enrolled at UNSW Sydney who meet those standards.

Establish in 1854 by WC Wentworth with an initial gift of PS200, this prize has served to encourage students to write engaging essays that consider social, political and philosophical implications in their work. Open to all University of Sydney students whether majoring in English or not; its Scholarship may also be considered by external applicants who can demonstrate outstanding writing achievement.

This award recognizes exceptional works of fiction or nonfiction that explore Australian life and culture through themes or issues. The winner receives a prize of $12,000 and their work is published in magazine. Submissions to this competition are open to all Australians and will be assessed by a panel of judges.

Candidates must submit an essay of up to 4000 words that demonstrates originality and can engage with a nominated question in an engaging way. Entries will be evaluated according to how well they reflect social, political and philosophical implications in an innovative and challenging manner while conveying a sense of place. Applicants will also be judged according to quality writing ability that engages a wide variety of readers.

This prize is given annually to an North American scholar for the best book published on Christianity history within a calendar year, and this year goes to Dr. Emily Michelson from University of St Andrews for her book Catholic Spectacle and Rome’s Jews: Early Modern Conversion and Resistance. Winner will be notified by end June, and his/her article published by Church History.