Young Achiever Award
The Young Achievement Award is for emerging professionals who are making an outstanding contribution to the development of interpretation in Australia. First presented in 2008, this award celebrates inspiration, creativity, innovation and audience awareness of a young individual who demonstrates a commitment to Interpretation as their chosen profession.
Georgie Waterman Award
Since 1999, Interpretation Australia has celebrated the life of interpreter Georgie Waterman by awarding this special industry award. The Georgie Waterman Award recognises individuals who have made an outstanding and sustained contribution to Australia’s interpretation profession.
National Awards
Effective interpretation of our natural and cultural heritage makes a difference in our daily lives. It helps us understand and navigate our world and adds depth and insight to our experiences in museums, zoos, parks, heritage sites, the outdoors and commercial environments. IA’s National Awards of Excellence recognise best practice in natural and cultural heritage interpretation to help drive a culture of continuous improvement across the industry.
The IA National Awards of Excellence are open to all IA members residing in Australia.
Guidelines for the 2025 IA National Awards can be found here
Please direct all queries to admin@interpretationaustralia.asn.au.
Key dates:
Awards open: 01 July 2025
Entries close: 15 September 2025
Awards Ceremony: IA AGM Date TBC
Interpretation Projects -Outdoors
A project that demonstrates interpretation elements and design integrated in an outdoor environment or setting. This should be a permanent/temporary display. Award levels are based on the total project budget.
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Level A: Project budget less than $30,000
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Level B: Project budget $30,000 – $100,000
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Level C: Project budget over $100,000
Interpretation Projects -Indoors
A project that demonstrates interpretation elements and design integrated in an indoor environment or setting. This should be a permanent/temporary display. Award levels are based on the total project budget.
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Level A: Project budget less than $30,000
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Level B: Project budget $30,000 – $100,000
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Level C: Project budget over $100,000
Guided Interpretation Experience
An innovative interpretation program facilitated by a live interpreter that allows audience interaction in real time, in a face-to-face setting. These experiences may include interpretive talks, costumed interpretation, theatrical programs, guided walks, tours or historical reenactments.
Digital Interpretation Project
An interpretation project that is delivered via digital devices or media only. Examples include an audio tour, handheld device, website, mobile app, social media page or podcast. A multimedia product designed for educational use will be accepted if it has a public application and works as a standalone experience.
First Nations Interpretation Project
A culturally led project that celebrates and elevates First Nations voices. It could include the sharing of stories and knowledge, science and technology, philosophy, traditions, or practices. The development and delivery phases should demonstrate authentic connection, collaboration and consultation with Traditional Custodians, Elders and communities.
2025 IA Award winner
Interpretation Australia
National Awards
The Interpretation Australia National Awards were established in 2008 to recognise and reward outstanding achievements in natural and cultural heritage interpretation and inspire industry best-practice across Australia.
IA offers three national awards annually:
IA National Awards
Offered across several categories, these awards recognise the diversity of natural and cultural heritage interpretation and Australian interpretation professionals.
Georgie Waterman Award
This award recognises individuals who have made an outstanding & sustained contribution to the development of the profession of interpretation in Australia.
