The Premier’s Spirit of Anzac Prize

Dear JMSS Community,

I know this school is a science school, however this is an opportunity I strongly believe is worth you all knowing about. The Premier’s Spirit of Anzac Prize is an annual competition for Victorian high school students. The competition is open to anyone in Year 9, 10, 11 and 12, not just those specifically studying history. It encourages Victorian students to explore Australia’s significant war and peacekeeping history, as well as to reflect on the courage, resilience, and sacrifices made by Australian service people.

Those who win receive a fully funded ten day study tour during the school holidays. This experience will help students learn more about Australia’s wartime history and the sacrifices made by those who served. I was one of 12 students who won the prize last year and it was an extraordinary experience. We travelled to Türkiye, and got to explore and learn about the rich history of the country, as well as significant war memorials and historical sites including Gallipoli, where the Anzac legend began. Being there made the learning that much more powerful. It was truly unforgettable.

Remember, anyone can apply, so why not give it a shot? You just have to have a passion for learning, and an interest in any of our wartime history. I was interested in the Vietnam War, which is what got me interested in applying. The application takes a bit of work but I know if you are at JMSS you are not afraid of hard work.

Personal tip: Read the application guidelines carefully, have a good think about the submission questions (think about them for at least a few days), and pay close attention to the assessment criteria/rubric.

Applications close on Monday, 28 April 2025.

To apply or for more information, visit the Premier’s Spirit of Anzac Prize website at https://www.vic.gov.au/soap

The Victorian Government especially encourages students from diverse and multicultural backgrounds to apply.

~ Bai Yang