The awards are open to state and non-state schools in Queensland.

You can apply for a Peter Doherty Award if you are a:

• Student who has completed Year 11 in a Queensland school and are currently enrolled in at least two Year 12 approved senior science or technology or engineering or mathematics subjects. You also need to have attained an A standard of achievement or equivalent in at least two Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) or other approved curriculum science, technology, engineering or mathematics General subjects in Year 11.
• Teacher in a Queensland school who has implemented strategies to lift student performance in science or technology or engineering or mathematics; and who inspires others to ensure every student succeeds through their ongoing contributions to the learning outcomes of both students and other staff.
• School-based STEM Support Officer (scientific assistants, teacher aides or other support officers) supporting the operational aspects of a dynamic and efficient STEM school curriculum.
• School that demonstrates initiative and commitment in managing and promoting science or technology or engineering or mathematics across the whole school and within the community.
• An education partner (tertiary, industry, business, government, research or education institution, school volunteer, school mentor, cluster of schools working together on STEM initiatives and community organisation) that encourages productive STEM partnerships with schools.

Award conditions

Applicants may be nominated by themselves or by another person. Previous Peter Doherty Award recipients are not eligible to apply. Applications should not be for projects or initiatives that are the same or similar to previously submitted applications unless the project or initiative is significantly enhanced or modified.

How the award is to be used

For students the award is to be used to:

• undertake activities associated with tertiary STEM courses
• attend conferences, forums or events that will extend your experiences in STEM
• purchase equipment that can assist your learning and development in STEM
• undertake research projects, including experience in a research laboratory. 

For teachers and support officers, the award is to be used to:

• assist you to undertake appropriate professional development activities acceptable to your principal and within the normal guidelines of your employing authority. 

For schools and education partners, the award is to be used to:

•   assist in undertaking further STEM activities.

Attendance at the award ceremony

It is anticipated that the successful applicants will attend the awards ceremony. If required, travel and accommodation expenses will be paid by the Department of Education for the award recipients. For student awards the travel and accommodation expenses will also be paid for two accompanying adults if required.