2025 finalists were announced on 22 May, 2025. The winner was announced in Sydney on 19 June.

The Freelance Journalist of the Year Prize recognises the unique contribution that freelance journalists make across all media platforms to the future of the industry. It can include commentary, analysis and investigations, among other forms. 

The prize for Freelance Journalist of the Year is chosen on the basis of journalistic excellence. 

Entrants must submit a body of work of three pieces. All forms of media are accepted. This award is only open to individual entrants. 

All entries must have been published or broadcast and available in Australia between April 16, 2024 and April 14, 2025.

Each entry to the Mid-Year Media Prizes is judged on how well it responds to:

• the category description; and
• judging criteria.

For more information on how judging works, including the judging criteria, please refer to the FAQs.

Your entry must comply with the Terms & Conditions.

Entry fee

The entry fee for Freelance Journalist of the Year Prize remains $50.

Entry remains free for MEAA members.

Entry Support

If you have any further questions, please contact: Margie Smithurst, Senior Manager, Walkley Awards and Mid-Year Media Prizes: margie.smithurst@walkleys.com.