CEDA launches the Prize for Excellence in Economics and Public Policy

Media release issued Friday, 2 July 2010

To engage the brightest minds in the search for the best policy ideas, and to celebrate its 50th anniversary, CEDA has launched the annual Prize for Excellence in Economics and Public Policy.

CEDA Chief Executive David Byers said that CEDA is proud to foster Australia's up and coming academic bright sparks.

"Since 1960, CEDA has remained true to its role as an entrepreneur of ideas.  The CEDA prize advances this mandate. Awarded to the best economics and policy students in Australian universities it will encourage excellence in these fields and promote continued study."

Over the past fifty years, CEDA has tracked the course of Australian public policy debate, producing more than 3000 policy papers, articles and research reports.

CEDA Research and Policy Director Michael Porter highlighted the importance of developing Australian expertise.

"Many disciplines encourage students through awards prizes, scholarships and medals. It is common in the sciences and law, but not in the areas of especial importance for CEDA, economics and policy."

The CEDA prize is open to postgraduate or honours students in economics or public policy disciplines. The competition will consist of a 6,000 to 7,500 word report on any topic related to the economic development of Australia.

"The topic is intentionally broad to allow Australia's young minds the freedom to create great ideas, to innovate and to grow. The only criterion for success is demonstrated excellence," CEDA Research and Policy Director Michael Porter said.

The winning student will receive $5,000, an opportunity to participate in a panel at a CEDA forum, and their report will published.

The prize will be presented at CEDA's 50th anniversary commemoration dinner in Melbourne on 29 November 2010. It will judged by a distinguished panel consisting of CEDA Research and Policy Council members:

• Dr Glenn Withers AO, CEO, Australian Universities
• Professor Jonathan Pincus, The University of Adelaide
• Professor Ian Harper, Senior Consultant, Access Economics
• Dr Michael Porter, Director, CEDA Research and Policy
          

Entries close 30 September 2010.

Further information, including terms and conditions, is available at www.ceda.com.au.