The Jill Roe Prize is awarded annually for the best unpublished article-length work of historical research in any area of historical enquiry produced by a postgraduate student.
The Prize honours the career of Professor Emerita Jill Roe (1940–2017), an eminent and much-loved Australian historian who made a very significant contribution to the writing, teaching and public communication of history in Australia and abroad.
From 2025 onward, the Jill Roe Prize will be funded by donations to the AHA’s Public Fund, which supports the creation, publication, dissemination and discussion of historical literature in Australia.
Important Dates
Applications open: 1 January 2026
Applications close: 31 March 2026
The successful applicant will be announced at the 2026 AHA conference.
Terms and conditions
The Jill Roe Prize will be awarded annually for the best unpublished article-length work (5,000-8,000 words, including footnotes) of historical research in any area of historical enquiry produced by a postgraduate student.
The Prize will consist of a cash payment of $500 and a citation, presented annually at the AHA national conference.
In addition to the Prize the winning entry will be considered for publication in History Australia – the journal of the Australian Historical Association. At the time of submission, the article must not be under review by any journal other than History Australia.
Eligibility
Applicants must be enrolled for a higher degree (Masters or PhD) at an Australian university.
Australian citizens (including those residing overseas), permanent residents, or applicants with a current and valid Australian visa are eligible for the prize.
Applicants must be current financial members of the AHA at the time of application.
Current members of the AHA Executive Committee and AHA Public Fund Committee are ineligible to apply for this award.
Applications
Applicants are required to complete the application form.
Applications should include a digital copy of the submitted paper.
Completed applications should be sent to the Administrative Officer by the application deadline.
Judging
Applications will be judged by a panel of three appointed by the AHA.
No feedback will be given on applications. Judges’ decisions are final.