Australian Awards for University Teaching (AAUT)

The Australian Awards for University Teaching (AAUT) are recognised across the national sector as indicators of high quality teaching.

About the awards

The Australian Awards for University Teaching (AAUT) are the national awards for university teaching. They reward sustained programs and practices that support students and enhance learning outcomes.

There are four types of awards:

Citations for Outstanding Contributions to Student Learning (Citations)
Awards for Programs That Enhance Learning (Program Awards)
Awards for Teaching Excellence (Teaching Awards)
Award for Australian University Teacher Of The Year.

2026 nominees

Nominees for the AAUT 2026 will be drawn from previous (internal) teaching award recipients and recommendations made by Heads of School.

How to apply

Your AAUT nomination must include evidence from a five year period, so it's important to think about your application well ahead of time. You'll also need endorsement from your Head of School (HoS).

The general nomination process and timeline is outlined below:

Step 1

1-2 years before you plan to apply

Discuss your intent to nominate with your HoS during your Employee Development and Review Scheme (EDRS) interview. You should do this at least the year before you plan to apply, but preferably two years before.

Step 2

By February (the year you intend to apply)

Inform the Sub-Dean (Academic Development) of your intent to apply.

Step 3

February-June

Attend Department of Learning and Teaching (DLT) workshops and mentor-supported activity, including a photo workshop to ensure you have a good image.
Prepare your nomination document against the set criteria. This should include:
- data and other evidence supporting your claims
- two supporting statements from peers.

Step 4