George Munster Independent Journalism Award
The George Munster Award recognises excellence in independent journalism. Originally an award for freelance journalism, the award has been expanded to include applicants from any medium who are not necessarily freelancers, but who can demonstrate independence of mind, acuity and excellence in their craft. The award carries a prize of $1,000.
About George Munster
George Munster was a co-founder of the Nation, a fortnightly journal (later to merge with The Review to become Nation Review), and a freelance editor, journalist and writer of books. He later became an editor with Angus and Robertson Publishers and reverted to freelance work both as a journalist and writer.
When George's book Rupert Murdoch: A Paper Prince was launched in October 1985, a little over a year after his death, a number of his friends decided to commemorate his life and the outstanding contribution he made to journalism by instituting an annual award to a freelance journalist.
Conditions of the Award
The primary criteria underpinning this award are independence and excellence. "Independence" refers to the demonstrated attitude and mindset of the journalist in relation to the parties who have a direct interest in the content of the piece or series submitted.
There will be only one award presented each year and this will be at the discretion of the judges. The prize may not be given if there is not deemed to be a suitable candidate. The amount of the award is $1000.
The award is for the best piece of journalism or series, published or broadcast in any medium in the 12 months prior to 30 June of the year the award is presented. Applicants must have been ordinarily resident in Australia for no less than twelve months prior to that date. The work presented by the applicant for consideration must demonstrate:
- intellectual rigour, integrity and independence from undue influence
- accuracy, insight and sophistication of investigation and analysis
- excellence in craft and style in the chosen medium of production and presentation.
Applications
Applications must be received by the ACIJ by 5pm 28 July (extended from 18 July 2008). The winner will be announced at the George Munster forum at the University of Technology, Sydney on Friday evening 19 September 2008.
All applicants must forward an application form (doc, 196Kb) along with the following:
Four copies of the piece or series of journalism which is being submitted for consideration, and a statement of between 1000 and 2000 words addressing points 1, 2 and 3 above.
The award is open to individuals or, where appropriate, a team. Applicants may apply directly or be nominated by other people, including the management and editors of newspapers, magazines, radio and television stations, film distributors and on-line publishers.
Contact for further information: Jan McClelland Ph: (02) 9514 2295
